A B O U T U S
Our 2020-2021 Student of the Year and Student Ambassadors experienced a senior year like no other. They took classes,
participated in internships and volunteer opportunities, applied for college, and so much more in a completely virtual
environment.
We asked them to reflect on their experience with Junior Achievement of New York, their favorite memories of JA programs, and
where they’re heading next. Keep reading to learn how Junior Achievement has made an impact on their lives and their plans after
graduation!
2020-2021 Student Ambassador Reflections
Aya Ibrahim, Student of the Year
Aya Ibrahim is a senior at the Academy of Finance and Enterprise and Junior
Achievement of New York's 2020 Student of the Year. According to Aya, High
School Heroes was an unforgettable experience where she learned the
significance of giving back to the community and lending a hand to hopeful
minds that are looking forward to the future.
She believes JA has prepared her for success by opening her eyes to the future
and thinking about who she wants to become, what she wants to pursue, and
how to help her community. "Because of JA, I made it my mission to guide first
generation students to unlock their potential just as JA transformed my journey,"
she said.
Aya is a first-generation immigrant who was born and raised in Egypt. This fall,
she will attend Northwestern University as a QuestBridge Scholar, and major in
Civil Engineering with a minor in Entrepreneurship.
Youssf Hegazy, Student Ambassador
Youssf Hegazy is a senior at the Academy of Finance and Enterprise. He vividly
remembers taking a trip to the local elementary school during his junior year to
teach younger students important finance concepts as a High School Hero.
He describes his JA experience as "empowering, insightful, and inspiring. These
three words adequately explain that all of the opportunities I have been
provided gave truly made a difference in building on my past and preparing me
for the future."
This fall, Youssf will attend Columbia University where he will major in
Neuroscience on the Premed Track.
