Student Spotlight: Abou-Raad Wins Case Scholarship
When Michelle Abou-Raad applied for the Harold C. Case Scholarship in February, she was focusing on completing her studies in Geneva and Istanbul. She didn’t think she would be selected for one of Boston University’s highest student honors.
But the rising senior at the Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies at Boston University was wrong. On June 15, Abou-Raad was officially named a Case Scholar for 2015-2016.
“When I got the news, I was so honored,” Abou-Raad said. “Coming to BU, I never expected to win something of this magnitude; there are so many intelligent and talented people here. I am very thankful and honored to be awarded this scholarship.”
A native of Methuen, Abou-Raad is a major in International Relations and Middle East & North Africa Studies.
“I chose my course of study because I specifically want to focus on the issue of education of women in the Middle East,” Abou-Raad said. “The Middle East is a region with interesting and vibrant culture, but also with a lot of policies that need improvement. My ultimate goal is to work with an NGO focusing on these issues in the region.”
Abou-Raad’s honor will be noted on her transcript. The criteria for selection are scholarship, extracurricular achievements, contributions to the University and scholarly potential.
“This award is one of the highest honors accorded to undergraduate students at Boston University,” said Elizabeth B. Loizeaux, Associate Provost for Undergraduate Affairs. “The Harold C. Case Scholarship was established by contributions from students, alumni, staff, faculty, Trustees, and friends of Boston University, in recognition of the achievements of Dr. Case during his tenure as the fifth President of Boston University from 1951 to 1967.”
In addition to her studies abroad, Abou-Raad has been heavily involved with the BU Community Service Center as a program manager.
“The Case Award celebrates all the qualities that we value the most at the Pardee School,” said Adil Najam, Dean. “I am delighted that one of our students has been selected for this award.”
Abou-Raad intends to spend her senior year working on an honors thesis on the topic of refugee rights.
“I am excited to come back to the Pardee School for my senior year,” Abou-Raad said. “After I graduate, I hope to return to the Middle East and work for a few years before obtaining my Master’s degree.”