HÂþ»­

Hadi Saifi, from Halifax, Nova Scotia, graduated from HÂþ»­ in spring 2026 with a Bachelor of Arts with double major in International Development Studies and Law, Justice & Society with a minor in Environment, Sustainability & Society. He shares some of her fond memories from his Dal experience, advice for new students, and details of what's next for him.

What is next for you?

This coming fall, I will be starting a Master of Public Policy at McGill University, beginning in August. I am very excited for this next chapter in my academic journey and grateful for the opportunity to continue my studies at one of Canada’s and the world’s most respected institutions. I look forward to deepening my understanding of public policy, governance, and social change, and to building on the experiences and lessons I gained during my undergraduate studies at HÂþ»­.

Please share a favorite experience or fond memory from your time studying in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, either inside or outside the classroom.

I have many meaningful memories from my time at HÂþ»­, but one of the most fulfilling experiences was volunteering with WUSC HÂþ»­ and supporting students who arrived through the Student Refugee Program. WUSC brings students together to support refugee students as they begin their studies and settle into a new community.

Through this work, I had the privilege of welcoming sponsored students at the airport, helping them become familiar with Halifax, and supporting them with practical needs such as navigating campus, accessing resources, and adjusting to academic life. It was also a chance to work alongside a diverse and committed group of student volunteers who cared deeply about inclusion and community. That experience was especially meaningful to me because it showed how students can come together to make someone’s transition feel less overwhelming and more welcoming. It remains one of my fondest memories from my time in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.

If you could give one piece of advice to incoming first-year students, what would it be?

I would say: do not be shy. Ask questions, speak with your professors, engage with your classmates, and take each course intentionally. University is not only about attending lectures and completing assignments; it is also about building relationships, exploring ideas, and learning how to think critically and confidently.

One of the most important things students can do is visit their professors during office hours. Share your ideas, ask for feedback, and seek guidance when you need it. These conversations can help you improve your writing, develop research interests, and build meaningful academic connections that may support you in the future.

I would also encourage first-year students to get involved outside the classroom. Join a society, club, or student organization that reflects your interests. Whether you volunteer, take on a leadership role, or participate, these experiences can teach you a great deal about collaboration, responsibility, and community. Looking back, the relationships and experiences I built outside the classroom were just as valuable as what I learned inside it.