Qatar Airways and BA to join?

Wanted to pass along some news (since I'm over here in Doha) about Qatar Airways - looks as though there is a rumor going around about QA joining up with British Airways.

You can read the article here.  From Doha News here.

I tend to be skeptical about these things, but always wonder when it hits the airwaves about where the actual "rumor" came from.  I have to believe that there was some discussion at some point between the two parties about a potential joint venture.  Ever since Qatar and United ended their agreement, I've hoped that Qatar would find a new home alliance - I never liked the fact I couldn't get PQM's when I flew them, but their product is vastly superior to United's. 

Time will tell.  Stay tuned...

Day 1 underway

My first day on campus in Education City is underway - happy to report that I'm back again in the office I used during my last research trip.  It's a bit surreal to be back here in the same building I was before, but I'm sure I'll get over that quickly.  My day so far has been working on research articles and journals to finalize my literature review, and I'll also be starting to get students scheduled.  I still need to take a trip over to the other site building, probably with Cyndy.  I'd like to get my contact there on board so that I'm set with both locations. 

I'm heading over shortly to CM to watch a special presentation on the state of education in Qatar (and future trends, I believe).  I'll be curious to see if the new EC university model is discussed and what reactions are.  Still forming an opinion on that...

Made it to Doha

Good morning, everyone -

I'm happy to report I've successfully made it to Doha!  I'm getting things a bit organized today, and will start in tomorrow in earnest on arranging my interviews and meetings.  All flights went very well to get me here, and I'm excited about what is to come.

It's still a little hard for me to grasp that this is it - dissertation research (followed by just a bit of writing).  But I'm hopeful and (as I said above) excited to be here and work with the students and staff.  I'm also very grateful to be able to stay with Cyndy and her family for the next number of days.  My best friend told me that this all will probably go fast...but I will do my best to get as much out of it as I can.

Email is probably the best way to get a hold of me if needed - or feel free to post a comment below.

More updates to come!

T minus...

....18 hours to departure. 

Is it really this close?

game?

Euchre anyone?