There's nothing like a series of Formula One workshops to get students rethinking their majors. Of the more than 600 UAE university students who recently attended the Mastering Motorsport workshops at the Yas Marina Circuit — nine of whom were from NYUAD — there are more than likely a few now re-evaluating their career paths.

Part of Yasalam 2010's F1 event lineup, the Mastering Motorsport workshops offered students the chance to learn about F1 career opportunities in engineering, medicine and fitness, public relations and media, and business and sponsorship. "It was a very inspiring and very encouraging experience," said Rafael Scharan (NYUAD '14), who took part in the business and sponsorship workshop.

In addition to motivating speakers including Brett Volker, head of brand and communications for Virgin Racing, and Sven Schaefer, manager of accounts and events for Sauber Racing, the students heard from F1 driver Karun Chandhok, who shared his experiences and later posed for photos.

"We had some great exposure," said engineering workshop attendee Mohammed Omar (NYUAD '14), who won a pass to ride around the circuit in an Aston Martin. "I'm crazily excited," he exclaimed.