TLDR;
In this podcast, Ahmed Alhadedy and Abu Hamid discuss a range of topics relevant to young people, including software, travel, religion, relationships, productivity, and personal development. They share their experiences and insights on studying abroad, career choices, navigating cultural differences, maintaining religious identity, and developing essential soft skills. They emphasize the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and personal responsibility in achieving success and fulfillment.
- Introduction to the podcast and hosts' backgrounds.
- Discussion on studying abroad, including scholarships and cultural adaptation.
- Career advice, focusing on data analytics, AI, and the importance of soft skills.
- Personal development, including maintaining religious identity and defining success.
Podcast Intro and Hosts Introduction [0:00]
Ahmed Alhadedy expresses his excitement about the podcast and introduces Abu Hamid, highlighting their shared interests and experiences. Abu Hamid explains how he and Ahmed met through a consultation and discovered common ground in their thinking and opinions on various topics, including religion, relationships, and productivity. They aim to address issues relevant to young people and share experiences related to software, travel, and immigration. Ahmed emphasizes the importance of having someone to provide different perspectives and guidance, especially for young people navigating life's challenges.
Studying Computer Science and the Value of Data Analytics [2:08]
Abu Hamid shares his background in data analytics, noting his technical foundation and interest in transforming ideas into engaging products. He values the field's blend of technical skills and soft skills, which he believes are essential for success. Ahmed emphasizes the importance of soft skills, recounting how he observed many people who are very good at coding and programming, but they don’t have the tools or the social skills that limit the opportunities that they might put themselves in.
Journey to America: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Opportunities [5:59]
Ahmed inquires about Abu Hamid's journey to America, from studying computer science in Egypt to pursuing opportunities abroad. Abu Hamid recounts his early interest in traveling, fueled by participation in science and engineering competitions. He discusses his decision to take a break from university to apply for scholarships in America, weighing the challenges of language acquisition in Germany against the higher costs in America. He emphasizes the importance of personal effort and strategic planning in securing scholarships.
Scholarship Application Process and Strategies [12:55]
Abu Hamid describes the scholarship application process as difficult and psychologically stressful, emphasizing the competitive nature of securing opportunities in America. He advises applicants to excel academically, demonstrate extracurricular involvement, and seek guidance from resources like AS4Help and the American Cultural Center. He recommends using College Board to research universities and scholarships, and emphasizes the importance of contacting admissions committees for unpublished opportunities.
Advice for College Students Considering Studying Abroad [19:01]
Ahmed asks if it's worth it to study abroad while in college. Abu Hamid advises students to finish their current degree before planning the next step, and to make the best of their current situation. He stresses the importance of patience and flexibility, as travel-related processes can be lengthy and uncertain. He encourages listeners to continue living their lives normally while pursuing travel opportunities, rather than putting everything on hold.
Life as a Student in America: Culture, Academics, and Relationships [22:11]
Abu Hamid describes the initial challenges of adapting to a new culture, language, and academic system in America. He highlights the support he received from his university and the spirit of adventure that helped him navigate the transition. He notes the diversity of people and perspectives in America, and the importance of understanding cultural nuances. He also appreciates the close relationships between university professors and students, and the freedom to challenge ideas.
Forming Relationships and Overcoming Cultural Differences [27:52]
Ahmed asks about the difficulty of forming relationships in America, given the cultural and linguistic differences. Abu Hamid acknowledges that it's not easy, but emphasizes the importance of personality and openness to new experiences. He notes that Americans are generally accepting of people from different backgrounds, and that curiosity about his Egyptian heritage often serves as a conversation starter. He also discusses the challenges of language and cultural adaptation, such as understanding humor and body language.
Finding a Job in America: Internships, Networking, and Overcoming Bias [31:04]
Abu Hamid describes the difficulty of finding a job in America, even for citizens. He emphasizes the importance of internships, networking, and continuous learning to gain experience and skills. He recounts his efforts to attend career fairs, connect with people on LinkedIn, and seek opportunities through his university. He also addresses the issue of potential bias in hiring, particularly regarding visa sponsorship.
Racism and Discrimination in America: Personal Experiences and Legal Protections [37:27]
Ahmed asks about experiences with racism or discrimination in America, both in and outside of the workplace. Abu Hamid states that he has not personally experienced it, but acknowledges that it exists. He notes that laws prohibit discrimination, but that subtle forms of bias may still occur. He also discusses the importance of being aware of cultural sensitivities and avoiding potentially dangerous areas.
Maintaining Religious Identity and Practicing Faith in America [39:51]
Ahmed asks if Abu Hamid forgot his religion when he traveled. Abu Hamid affirms that his faith is not tied to a specific place, and that he has encountered devout Muslims from diverse backgrounds in America. He acknowledges missing the call to prayer and the presence of mosques, but appreciates the freedom to practice his religion without interference. He also highlights the support and respect shown by his university towards Muslim students.
Addressing Concerns About Losing Religious Identity Abroad [42:10]
Ahmed and Abu Hamid address concerns about losing religious identity when traveling abroad. They emphasize that personal choice and commitment are more important than location. They discuss the importance of finding ways to connect with God, such as praying, reading the Quran, and seeking out Muslim communities. They also highlight the availability of resources like Islamic centers and online Quran memorization teachers.
Choosing a Career Path: Data Engineering vs. Software Development [46:33]
Ahmed asks why Abu Hamid chose data engineering over software development. Abu Hamid explains that he wanted to combine technical skills with business acumen, and to have a role that involved both coding and communication. He believes that data analysis offers increasing opportunities, even with the rise of AI. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the fundamentals and developing a broad skill set.
The Impact of AI on Data Analytics and the Importance of Fundamentals [48:10]
Abu Hamid discusses the impact of AI on the field of data analytics, suggesting that it will make entry more challenging but also create new opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the fundamentals and developing a broad skill set, rather than specializing too narrowly. He also notes the limitations of AI in handling sensitive data and the need for human judgment and creativity.
The Value of General Knowledge and Challenging Worldly Beliefs [55:31]
Abu Hamid highlights the value of general knowledge and the ability to connect different fields of study. He encourages listeners to challenge worldly beliefs and to think critically about information, rather than accepting it at face value. He also emphasizes the importance of flexibility and adaptability in navigating life's challenges.
Choosing a Field of Study: Passion, Experimentation, and Seeking Advice [1:00:31]
Ahmed asks for advice for someone who didn't get into computer science. Abu Hamid says that there is always an opportunity. He advises listeners to follow their passions, experiment with different fields, and seek advice from people working in those fields. He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and understanding the nature of the work involved.
The Importance of Passion and Practical Experience in Choosing a Career [1:08:26]
Ahmed and Abu Hamid discuss the importance of passion and practical experience in choosing a career path. They encourage listeners to explore different fields, follow their curiosity, and seek out opportunities to gain hands-on experience. They also emphasize the importance of self-awareness and understanding one's strengths and weaknesses.
The Importance of Soft Skills in Professional Development [1:13:52]
Ahmed introduces the topic of soft skills, which he believes are often overlooked but essential for professional development. He asks Abu Hamid to share his insights on the most important soft skills for success in the workplace.
Key Soft Skills: Communication, Listening, Planning, and Problem-Solving [1:14:37]
Abu Hamid identifies several key soft skills, including communication, listening, planning, and problem-solving. He emphasizes the importance of being a good listener, giving people a chance to speak, and understanding their perspectives. He also highlights the value of being on time, proactive, and able to use critical thinking skills to find solutions to problems.
The Importance of Communication and Responsibility in Personal and Professional Life [1:19:07]
Ahmed emphasizes the importance of communication and listening skills in both personal and professional life. He notes that being a good listener can strengthen relationships and create a more supportive work environment. He also discusses the importance of taking responsibility and avoiding evasiveness or procrastination.
Defining a Good Man: Responsibility, Resilience, and Religious Faith [1:22:19]
Ahmed asks what qualities define a good Muslim man. Abu Hamid says that a good man takes responsibility, can be relied upon, and deals with difficult situations effectively. He emphasizes the importance of being there for others, but also acknowledging and addressing one's own challenges. He also notes the importance of fearing God in one's dealings and striving to please Him.
The Importance of Responsibility and Finding Solutions to Problems [1:25:11]
Ahmed agrees with Abu Hamid's emphasis on responsibility and finding solutions to problems. He notes that the ability to "figure it out" is a crucial skill for men in the modern era. He also discusses the importance of self-reliance and avoiding the need for constant validation from others.
Concluding Remarks and Teaser for Part 2 [1:29:05]
Ahmed and Abu Hamid conclude the podcast, thanking the audience for listening and teasing a second part with more topics. They encourage viewers to share their opinions and suggest topics for future discussions, including dopamine, pornography, patience, choosing a life partner, and technical skills for data analysis.