Karim

I want to make a difference. Although I have overcome adversity on many levels, I did not reach where I am today on my own. Every time I am presented with an obstacle, I am also presented with an opportunity.  Whether it was my high school football coach or my professor, someone has always been there to guide me through the darkest tunnels.  My family raised me and my community supported me.  Now I want to make a similar impact in the lives of others, ultimately making a larger difference.

I was born and raised in the United States, but I am the son of Egyptian immigrants and the second of five boys.  As the son of two entrepreneurs, I was raised and nurtured in a business environment.  My current aspirations were shaped heavily by my experiences as a salesman in our family business.  There, I worked countless hours interacting with customers and traveling with my father to obtain merchandise. The service I provided was appreciated, which fueled my desire to excel.  After concluding my education, I will combine the skills I learned in school and in the workplace to revive the family business.

Being an NYNY Fellow is a unique opportunity.   I wish everyone had the chance to experience what the program has to offer.  Every workshop is rewarding, adding insight on professions that lack exposure and providing inspiration on many levels, which pushes me to succeed.  Being surrounded by people who are investing their time in our futures on a grand scale is special.