Passing on the Georgetown Banner—and the Legacy—To a New Generation
Every fall, Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) welcomes its incoming class of Hoyas with a New Student Convocation ceremony that emphasises tradition while offering inspiration for the journey ahead.
A cornerstone of each Convocation is the ceremonial passing of the GU-Q banner from a senior to a first-year student, marking the continuation of the university’s legacy for another generation. This year, the exchange held special meaning. Marking the 20th year of operations in Qatar, the banner was handed to a student representative of the 21st incoming class—the largest in GU-Q history–and the first batch under a renewed partner agreement with Qatar Foundation.
“I received the banner in my freshman year and now I’m doing the same thing three years later,” reflected banner bearer Moza Al-Hajri, Class of 2026, a Qatari student majoring in International Economics. “It was a moment of growth and reflection on how the past three years in Georgetown have transformed me from when I first entered as a freshman.”
Moza carrying the banner for the Class of 2025 in her first year
Moza carrying the banner to hand to the Class of 2029 in her final year
There to receive the banner and carry it on was Diana Doroftei, Class of 2029, an international student from Moldova who plans to major in International Politics. “It’s a big sense of responsibility to carry this symbol of the Georgetown legacy,” shared Diana, adding: “It symbolizes trust. Trusting somebody to carry the banner onwards with all that it means: the diversity, the unity, the community. That’s what makes it so special.” Diana will be tasked with handing the banner to the next generation in her senior year.
Diana preparing to carry the banner foward for the Class of 2029
Here, they share their reflections on their journey from two different vantage points, united in their appreciation for the community they call home.
The Legacy: Moza Al Hajri (GU-Q’26)
How would you describe Georgetown in one phrase?
“A place where I belong. And I’ve experienced that throughout my years. Even though I change as a person, I always find a place for myself here.”
How have you seen GU-Q grow as a university?
“The first-year students are joining at a good time because the university has introduced so many new opportunities over the last few years. Georgetown has fulfilled its mission as an institution of higher education by offering us not only excellent professors but also a diverse student body. That duality makes GU-Q unique—you get world-class teaching, but in a context that’s grounded in our region.”
What has defined your life as a student so far?
“Being part of the debate club has definitely been an enriching journey. You represent Georgetown among other universities, discussing so many different topics. Our team always had an edge because we are used to debating in class. We’re used to talking about public policy, about history and philosophy, and debating that. So I would say that journey as a whole really defined my time here.”
What advice would you give to the first-years?
“Students should be committed to their intellectual journey at Georgetown. View your classes not as a stepping stone towards a career or solely to get good grades, but as an opportunity to become a better, more rounded person. This university is a great place to do that because we receive a holistic education that aims to make us better global citizens.
Take advantage of the opportunities and take your studies seriously. Not only for good grades, but to be truly intellectually curious. Make sure to put in the effort and learn how you can be a better person in the world we inherit. Be open to change. Opportunities always come. When opportunities are abundant, it’s about being open to change.”
The Heir: Diana Doroftei (GU-Q’29)
How would you describe Georgetown in one phrase?
“Opportunity, for sure. The diversity, the faculty, the optimism—it all feels like unity. Georgetown is a place for possibilities in every sense.”
What excites you the most about GU-Q?
“I am equally nervous and excited about everything—about classes, about clubs, about exploring Education City and Doha itself, because it is my first time in a Middle Eastern country. I lived in Moldova most of my life and in the U.S. for one year. So I have a very different perspective about life itself, and I am so excited to broaden my point of view.”
What kind of student do you intend to be?
“For sure, an engaged one. I want to be part of the community. I want to be able to connect with people, to be there for them, to offer kindness, help, and love if they need it—and even if they don’t. Because everybody needs love. I just want to be an engaged, active student. I want to have my eyes open when I graduate and know my path, and follow it courageously and surely forward.”
What do you hope to learn from your upperclassmen?
“I’m hoping to learn courage and open-mindedness to all cultures, to all religions. I think my class already cultivates that, but I want to see it in action through the seniors. Just being 100% devoted to people, to differences, to opportunities, is what I want to learn.”