Scholarships
AYCO Scholarship Award Recipients
AYCO’s Scholarship Program began over the summer of 2021 when staff and community members began to engage in conversation about changing the lives and futures of the immigrant youth that we serve. Through the generous donation of 2 community members, we were able to award 6 students with the reality of fulfilling their dreams of becoming first-generation University attendees pursuing their college degrees.
AYCO reviewed applications, we then identified students who met the requirements and conducted individual interviews. The students were scored in four categories; Need, Trust, Academic Achievement, and Community Involvement.
We are very excited to introduce the students we selected to be awarded in our AYCO Scholarship Program. All of these talented individuals have been a part of the AYCO UPLIFT program, many have also personally volunteered at our center. We will be updating their stories as they achieve new goals and dreams so check back in with us to follow their stories.
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Questions
Ahmed: ahmedali@aycoworld.org
Nuradin: nuradin@aycoworld.org
Abdinajib Muhumed
Oregon State University
As a student at Oregon State University, Abdinajib has experienced an evolving journey in higher education, continually refining both their mindset and field of interest. Initially, their primary goal was to pursue a Bachelor's in Biology with the fastest route to pre-medicine. While this is still one of their options and a solid choice, Abdinajib has gained more insight and advice over time, prompting a shift in focus. This summer, they have applied for multiple internships to gain hands-on experience in various medical fields.
Abdinajib has since changed their major to Biochemistry & Biophysics, with thoughts of pursuing careers as a Physician Assistant, Anesthesiology Assistant, or Pre-Pathology, in addition to continuing to explore pre-medicine. Their ultimate goal remains within the medical field, but the vastness of the field has allowed them to better understand the pros and cons of different career paths and the requirements needed to succeed in each.
Outside of academics, Abdinajib has a variety of hobbies that encompass sports (including broadcasting and orchestrating), non-fictional pixel films, current fashion, and an exploration of their cultural heritage. These hobbies reflect their interests in personal enjoyment, self-identification, and time management. From a young age, Abdinajib has enjoyed playing sports, discussing sports, and breaking down games. Fashion and movies provide a way to relax and prioritize mental health, while learning more about their cultural traditions offers a deeper understanding of their own values and origins.
Mohammad Surur
University of Portland
Mohammad Surur is a senior majoring in Computer Science at the University of Portland. As a full-stack developer, he is passionate about leveraging his experience to build full-scale applications that address real-world challenges. Mohammad aspires to strengthen his skills and gain valuable experience by collaborating with a team of innovative developers at a Big Tech company.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Mohammad has been actively involved in various community programs that have honed his leadership and teamwork abilities. Before joining the scholarship program, he participated in the Youth Leadership Program, the Basketball Program, the Environmental Program, and Afterschool Support initiatives. In 2022, he became AYCO's first intern, a role that allowed him to further develop his technical expertise and professional skills.
In his free time, Mohammad enjoys snowboarding, coding, and traveling, activities that fuel his creativity and curiosity.
Manar Surur
University of Portland
My name is Manar Surur and I am a senior at the University of Portland. I am studying Nursing and after graduation I am planning to work in the Labor and Delivery Unit. Outside of school, I love to read and go on hikes with my friends.
Hinda Farah
Portland State University
Hinda Farah is a psychology student dedicated to advancing mental health equity by developing approaches to care that are both globally relevant and culturally tailored. With years of experience supporting immigrants and refugees, Hinda serves as a research assistant at the Columbia-WHO Global Center for Mental Health and contributes to the Oregon Health Authority Behavioral Health Committee. Guided by a vision of inclusive innovation, Hinda strives to improve global mental health through treatments that respect and honor diverse cultural perspectives. Hinda is currently pursuing a B.S. in Psychology at Portland State University, with plans to advance into psychiatry, and focus on global mental health research.
Sumayah Abdirahman
Portland Community College
Sumayah Abdirahman is a Junior in college, passionately pursuing a degree in nursing. From a young age, she has been drawn to helping others, a calling that has shaped her academic journey and career aspirations. Her dedication to providing compassionate care and making a positive impact in people's lives fuels her ambition to excel in the medical field.
Beyond her studies, Sumayah values the importance of balance and connection. She cherishes quality time with family and friends, which keeps her grounded and motivated. When she has time to herself, she enjoys unwinding by binge-watching her favorite shows, finding inspiration and relaxation in storytelling.
Looking ahead, Sumayah is eager to embark on her professional journey, striving to offer patients the highest quality care and support. She aspires to make a meaningful difference in the healthcare industry, ensuring that every individual she assists feels seen, heard, and cared for.
Umi Hajimohamed
University of Portland
Umilkhayr is a fourth-year Psychology major with a Neuroscience minor at the University of Portland, pursuing the pre-Physician Assistant track. She is deeply passionate about studying the psychological impacts of diaspora, particularly within the post-civil war Somali community.
A long-standing member of the African Youth and Community Organization (AYCO), Umi has consistently demonstrated her commitment to giving back to her community. Her involvement has allowed her to foster connections, mentor others, and contribute to initiatives that uplift and empower those around her. She finds joy and fulfillment in being a source of support.