Current Scholars

Hana is an Economics major from Cairo University, passionate about psychology, languages, and culture. She is looking forward to exploring UChicago’s interdisciplinary courses that connect behavioral economics to other fields. She is especially eager to continue studying Chinese language at UChicago and to engage in cultural exchange with other students from various backgrounds. She believes this program is an excellent opportunity to deepen her understanding of how economics, psychology and culture intersect, while growing on both an academic and a personal level.  

Sara is an Economics student from Cairo University, driven by a deep love for learning. Choosing a major she is passionate about, despite societal norms, showed her how life-changing an intellectually fulfilling education can be. This ignited her desire to contribute to education reform in Egypt, combining her interest in both development and behavioral economics. Beyond academics, she is genuinely curious, with various hobbies ranging from language learning and journaling to painting and mobile photography. She cannot wait to show how UChicago's beautiful campus looks through her lens!

Studying Economics has given Hana a way to articulate the inarticulable. She is drawn to its gritty, mathematical side and she is excited to keep sharpening her research and analytical skills at UChicago, both in class and beyond (likely while chasing the best coffee in Hyde Park). She is passionate about environmental and gender equity, and endlessly curious about philosophy’s big, unanswerable questions. In her free time, she blogs and writes fiction - often with a true crime podcast playing in the background. 

After fully intending to study medicine, Lina's last-minute decision to study economics has been worthwhile. She has learnt that economics is more than just numbers and figures but explains why we make decisions. She looks forward to further understanding the “why” behind it all to build a career aimed at driving change. She is passionate about learning and trying new activities, always hoping to absorb as much she can. She also plays first division soccer in Egypt and always strives to grow as a team player. 

Ganna is an Economics student who’s particularly interested in macroeconomics and is excited to learn about the different methods and tools for analysis. She is also excited to learn about other topics in economics like econometrics and game theory. Outside of the classroom, She is passionate about sustainability initiatives, advocating for gender related issues, community service, and student leadership. She also enjoys mentoring and tutoring her peers both inside and outside of the classroom

Mohamed is a fourth-year student at the American University in Cairo studying Business Finance and minoring in Economics. He likes to think of himself as someone who loves taking risks and going on new adventures or experiences whenever there is a chance. He has a huge passion for learning, both inside and outside the classroom, mostly outside, if he is honest. Academically speaking he is interested in fintech and payment systems, and how technology can help people advance in the financial world. He is also a huge believer in leaving a positive impact whenever one goes.

Amr Hassan is a third-year Political Science student. His interests fall under the umbrella of the field of international relations. He is passionate about going deep in sub-fields such as global order studies. He is passionate about taking advantage of the resources provided in school and the enlightening discussions that shall be operated in class. He is also looking forward to mingling with new people to socialize and to exploring the world-class city of Chicago. 

Julia is a Political Science student in Cairo University and she am beyond excited for her year abroad as a Sawiris Scholar in the University of Chicago. She is really enthusiastic about international relations and diplomacy. She aspires to pursue a career in these two fields in the future. Beyond the classroom, She is an avid lover of photography, music, books and cinema.  

Shahd is a Political Science student deeply passionate about power, propaganda, and the political dynamics shaping our world. From witnessing the 2011 Egyptian revolution to analyzing speeches by Goebbels and other world leaders, she has grown fascinated by how language changes perception. Beyond the classroom, she enjoys drawing, photography, and poetry. She is excited to join UChicago, explore Hyde Park, and immerse herself in the university’s vibrant intellectual and cultural atmosphere. 

Mohamed Magdy, is an economics student from Ain Shams University with a strong interest in economic policy and venture capital. In the classroom, he enjoys analyzing market behavior and using data to understand policy outcomes. Outside of academics, he is passionate about entrepreneurship, fitness, and exploring global cultures. He is excited to engage with UChicago’s intellectually rigorous environment and collaborate with faculty who challenge conventional thinking.  

Abdullah studies Economics at Cairo University and swims competitively for Gezira Sporting Club, where he has been team captain for almost a year. He has been involved in swimming for 15 years and enjoys the balance it brings to my life. Outside of sports and studies, he loves reading and discovering new places. He is interested in management and finance and hopes to build a career in these fields. He is excited for his new chapter of studying at University of Chicago.

Melania is an Economics student at the American University in Cairo (AUC), originally from Qena in Upper Egypt, with a heart drawn to both numbers and stories. She loves exploring how economics and art can uplift communities. Beyond class, you’ll find Melania mentoring peers, serving children, painting, or lost in a novel. At UChicago, she hopes to dive into behavioral economics, policy, and theater, so she return home equipped to spark economic empowerment through creativity and inclusive development.

Habiba is a third-year Economics major at Alexandria University. She is interested in how economic tools can be used to improve health systems and shape better policies. She looks forward to exploring this field more deeply at UChicago and hopes to build a strong foundation for a future career in health economics. Beyond academics, she loves sports, especially squash, and she enjoys playing the piano in her free time.