30 Days of Research, Learning & Growth

Notes from Grad Life in Qatar – 30 Days of Research, Learning, and Growth

Hello everyone!

A long time ago, there was a blogging event called NaBloPoMo (National Blog Posting Month), celebrated every November, where bloggers challenged themselves to post one blog entry every day for 30 days. Though it’s not as popular anymore, I decided to bring it back to my little corner of the internet this year, with a professional twist.

This November, I’ll be sharing 30 days of reflections, tools, and lessons from my journey as a Health Informatics graduate student at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Doha. (And yes, in true mom fashion, I’m starting a few days late! 😄)

My main aim is simple: to write. Because ideas grow when written. I want to refine my skills, document my learning, and rediscover my own writing voice, something that I feel has been influenced by ChatGPT lately.

Since 2023, I’ve been deeply involved in research. My current work lies at the intersection of Population Health, Oral Health, Digital Health, and Artificial Intelligence. I’m learning how technology, data, and research can improve healthcare delivery and patient outcomes. Although I’ve stepped away from direct clinical work, I’m more convinced now about the immense impact that data-driven research and digital tools can have on patient care.

Over the course of my Master’s program, I have:

• Conducted scoping reviews and synthesised large volumes of health data.
• Used research tools such as SPSS, SQL, Rayyan, EndNote, RefWorks, and PRISMA-Scr frameworks.
• Explored population health research trends in Qatar.
• Applied my clinical background in dentistry to enhance patient education materials and improve data quality.

Over the next few days, I’ll be sharing:

• Insights on research tools, AI tools, Research Methodology, and academic writing.
• Reflections on studying in Qatar, especially as a mother.
• My experiences transitioning from clinical to non-clinical research roles.
• Thoughts on balancing family, graduate studies, faith, and personal growth.

I hope this series serves as:

• A reminder of everything I’ve learned in the past few years,
• A resource for others walking a similar path,
• A way to connect with researchers and professionals in the field, and
• A step forward in my journey in population health and digital health research.

Welcome to 30 Days of Research Reflections!