Student Profile

Ayesha W. recipient of the Class of 1982 Odyssey Scholarship

Ayesha W. ’16

Hometown: Durham, NC

What did you do this past summer?
I had the opportunity to teach at a cost-free summer program at Strive Tutoring. I led a group of first- and second-grade students in various academic and fun activities. Their favorite part was our dance breaks!

Please comment on the pursuit of your major and minor, as well as any other academic interests.
I am a double major in history and South Asian Languages and Civilizations.

Please tell us about a significant or memorable experience you have had during your time at UChicago.
I am currently studying abroad in Barcelona, something I could never have dreamed of doing before college. It is a truly special experience to immerse myself in a new place and to study the history of a fascinating region first-hand.

What activities do you participate in outside of the classroom? Are there any that are new from last year?
I tutor regularly at Strive Tutoring in Hyde Park. I also work in the Committee on Southern Asian Studies office. I have begun to explore my love for singing and have joined various singing groups on campus, such as the Women's Ensemble choir and the South Asian Acapella group.

As a scholarship recipient, to what extent are you grateful for the support you received? What are your thoughts on how you might one day give back to the University of Chicago?
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be at the University of Chicago. I could not have had the wonderful learning experiences I have had and hope to have in the future were it not for the generous support provided via this scholarship. I want to offer my sincere and heartfelt thanks for allowing me to have this life-changing experience.