Meet Muhamad Abdulghafour

Muhamad Abdulghafour, Ph.D., associate professor of computer science, joined NYIT in fall 2006. After several years as assistant dean of NYIT's School of Engineering and Computing Sciences in Manama, Bahrain, he made a change and joined the NYIT-Nanjing faculty in 2013.

Why pursue a career at NYIT?
It's a global institution. When I was growing up, my father always wanted me to be a teacher. Since I started teaching at NYIT, I have seen places I never thought I would see in my life. I feel like part of a family of global faculty members at NYIT.

What is the best part of your job?
Seeing the achievement of my students.

Where else have you lived before coming to China?
I grew up in a small town with many cultures in northeastern Syria, and Arabic is my mother tongue. I earned a bachelor’s degree in electronics engineering in Egypt and worked for six years in the petroleum industry. Since earning my master’s degree and Ph.D. at the University of Tennessee, I have mainly worked at universities in the Gulf States, such as the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Bahrain.

Do you speak any languages other than English and Arabic?
My family now lives in Istanbul, Turkey, so I know a little of the Turkish language.

How have you felt about living in foreign countries?
I lived in Knoxville, Tenn., for 10 years. My first six months were a challenge because I needed to improve my English, but overall Knoxville was one of the best places I have lived. Here in China, it is always funny when I try to speak Chinese. I have to carry with me a set of words so I can manage during my activities at grocery stores or restaurants.

What are some interesting facts about you?
My friends and family think I'm a good cook. I can make most Mediterranean dishes and plain yogurt and cheese. I also write poetry in Arabic, but I believe that I am more of an engineer than a poet.

What are three words that best describe your personality?
Serious, professional, and friendly.