Every dream has a beginning, and for Miguel Farraj, it started within the walls of Antonine University (UA).

Mr. Farraj, a recent UA graduate, is now making remarkable and life-changing contributions around the world. Here’s his success story:

In 2020, Mr. Farraj earned his Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from UA. Equipped with empowering resources, excellent work ethics, and spectacular knowledge, he embarked on his academic journey with confidence and pride. Thanks to the agreement between UA and the Université Catholique de Louvain (UCL), he was able to pursue further studies in musculoskeletal specialization at one of the top 3 universities in Belgium.

During his studies at UCL, Mr. Farraj excelled academically and caught the attention of a number of his professors, one in particular who offered him an opportunity to become his PhD candidate at the Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB).

Mr. Farraj’s excellence extended beyond the academic field and into the professional world. He became the first Lebanese and the youngest researcher from a European university to participate and present his work at the prestigious 7th International Patellofemoral Research Retreat held in Bologna, Italy, from June 6 to 9, 2023. This conference brings together the best orthopaedic surgeons, physical therapists, athletic trainers, podiatrists, and many other scientists from around the world to exchange research and expertise in order to enhance the management of Patellofemoral Pain (PFP).

In his unique and thought-out research, Mr. Farraj evaluated physical activity, pain levels, and hip-abductor muscle strength and endurance in patients with a duration of PFP of less than 6 months, as well as those with a duration exceeding 24 months.

His presented work was of such great importance that the UCL extended a formal invitation to him to serve as a member of the jury! Being part of the decision-making team, he now has the chance to evaluate the theses of M1 Physical Therapy students, thus allowing him to contribute to the academic development and assessment of future professionals in the field.

“I am filled with immense gratitude for the opportunities that have unfolded in my life,” Mr. Farraj says, “and I feel compelled to share this incredible journey with everyone. It is with great pleasure and conviction that I proclaim that dreams do indeed come true.”

He continues, “I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Antonine University for providing me this extraordinary opportunity. I am truly thankful for the foundation they have laid and the doors they have opened for me.”

In other words, Mr. Farraj owes his achievements to UA’s continuous support and, of course, his personal dedication. At UA, the administration and staff pride themselves on modeling fiercely independent and ambitious students. Graduates like him possess the knowledge, education, intelligence, and character not only to leave a meaningful imprint anywhere they go, but also to change the world as we know it! UA’s goal has always been to create a better future through the great minds that roam within its campus.