My AUAF, the Path to Professional Success

A businessperson and a business student at AUAF, Mohammad Aajan views his education as a means to further develop the business he runs.

As a businessperson, Aajan imports petroleum to Afghanistan. Petroleum, which fuels Afghanistan’s buzzing economy, is the country’s largest import. Through firsthand experience, Aajan learned that businesses in fast-growing Afghanistan stand a better chance of survival if they are administered professionally. "I want to be an educated businessman," he says. "That is why I came to AUAF."

Aajan, now 28, graduated from high school in Peshawar, Pakistan, in 2000. Upon his return to Afghanistan, he heard about AUAF from colleagues. When he saw advertisements for the University on television, he decided to apply. "I saw AUAF on TV and enrolled the day after."

Initially, Aajan enrolled in the Foundation Studies Program, which helps students build the skills required to be successful in an English-language undergraduate course of study, before moving into the Undergraduate Program in Spring 2008.   

AUAF offers undergraduate degree programs in Business Administration, Information Technology, and General Studies (Liberal Arts), all at international standards. The high standards are what most students, including Aajan, look for when they come to AUAF. "I like the open atmosphere, great facilities and excellent instructors we have here."

His current course load includes four courses: University Success, Social Science, Computer Skills, and Writing. Aajan enjoys the wide variety of topics he studies while moving towards his major in Business Administration. The educational system AUAF follows, referred to as "liberal arts," provides students with a wide breadth of knowledge in various subjects and depth in their specialization.

Despite being in class for only a few months, Aajan already sees changes in his life as well as his business. "The problem solving skills and creative thinking has helped me view the world and its issues from a new window." Long-lasting skills such as critical thinking are at the core of AUAF’s educational curriculum. These skills help students progress consistently in their professional and personal lives.

Mohammad Aajan sees success not just for himself, but also for his country. In his opinion, young students are the potential re-builders of the country and those who need to work hard for their future. "A certificate in English and computers is no longer enough," he advises. "People need to start thinking about a quality higher education."