Student of the Month – January 2017

Birama has been an exemplary student, community member, and representative of his country since arriving to the U.S. Since day one, he has strived to get involved as much as possible, wherever he can!

He has been civically engaged in the local community by meeting with the mayor, city council members, and the president of the University of Toledo to share his experience as an international student in the U.S.

He participates in the school band, playing the saxophone and drums. Aside from being a talented musician, he is also on the basketball, soccer, and dance teams. Birama also earned a place in the National Honor Society and has a 4.3 GPA.

Birama serves as an ambassador for a literary organization, Books4Buddies, that provides books to young students who do not have access to books in their communities. As an ambassador, he reads to kids, talks about the importance of reading, shares what his experience as an international student is like, and discusses education in Senegal. Birama’s Local Coordinator writes: “Birama plays a vital role and is a true ambassador inspiring kids!”

Runner-up:  Zarin from Bangladesh living in California

Zarin is a confident go-getter who loves life and has a big heart. She likes sharing her culture by teaching others her language and doing henna tattoos. Zarin joined the school chorus and had the opportunity to sing the American National Anthem at the 75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor memorial in Hawaii. During her time in California, Zarin has also learned how to ballroom dance and has joined the Flag Team at school. Keep up the good work, Zarin! Your thoughtfulness puts a smile on everyone’s faces!