Ahmed Ibrahim, a master’s student in information technology management at Cal State Fullerton, is finishing his final year strong as the recipient of the prestigious Boren Award.
The award provides scholarships and fellowships to U.S. undergraduate and graduate students to study languages in underrepresented world regions that are critical to U.S. interests. The program aims to enhance national security by promoting linguistic and cultural competence, as well as encourage students to gain skills essential for addressing global challenges.
Ibrahim, who works for the U.S. Department of Defense, discovered the Boren Awards through the National Security Education Program.
“I decided to apply because of my interest in enhancing U.S. national security through language and cultural immersion, mainly focusing on Arabic, which is crucial for effective diplomacy and national security efforts,” he said.
Ibrahim’s award will fund his study in Oman, where he will focus on acquiring comprehensive Omani Arabic skills.
“Through this overseas study, I aim to bridge linguistic and cultural gaps, enhancing my effectiveness in diplomacy and national security roles. This experience will also deepen my understanding of Middle Eastern cultures, which is vital for my career in IT project management within the defense and security sectors,” said Ibrahim.
After his study abroad program, Ibrahim plans to continue his doctoral studies in technology at Claremont Graduate University with a focus on addressing real-world business and societal challenges through advanced data analytics and research. “I aim to leverage my enhanced language skills and cultural knowledge in a role that contributes to U.S. national security and international relations,” he said.
Upon completing his doctorate, he plans to pursue a career as a professor.
To learn more about study abroad opportunities and scholarships, visit the CSUF Study Abroad and Global Engagement website. To learn more about Boren Awards opportunities, please contact Shari Merrill at smerrill@fullerton.edu.