In Their Words: Omar Higazy

Name: Omar Higazy

Department: Economics

What Scholarship or Award did you receive? Blanche McKenzie Scholarship in Economics

What year are you (1st year, 3rd year)?
I am a 4th year student.

College: Kresge College

Where do you call home? Redondo Beach, California

What is your field of focus? Finance and Applied economics

With all of the choices for college, what made UC Santa Cruz stand out? As a transfer student I had already started on my Economics degree. I was seeking a intellectually rigorous, academically challenging, and personally enriching experience which UC Santa Cruz, and most specifically the Economics department seemed to provide. UC Santa Cruz appealed to the intimately connected and ever- expanding constellation of my academic, professional, and personal endeavors.

What do you hope to do once you graduate from UC Santa Cruz? I plan to work in investment management. I hope to use my skills in Finance and Applied Economics to work in Venture Capital or Private equity management, where my work would really have a positive effect on the world and help flourish possible technological advancements and innovations that would give back to society.

What is one memorable moment that stands out for you as a student here? One memorable moment that stands out for me was following the 2016 presidential election where I witnessed collective support and understanding from students towards one another regardless of their ideological or political views. I witnessed as students openly engaged in collegial discussions with utmost respect towards each others views and beliefs.

What does this scholarship/award mean to you? This scholarship means a lot to me as it serves as an additional reminder that my hard work and sacrifices have not gone unnoticed. Not to say that I haven’t been rewarded for my work or not content as to where I am today, however it is nice to feel recognized. Not only that but at this point in my life, academic, and professional career, this scholarship serves as additional motivation to keep pursuing my goals and dreams with full belief that hard work and dedication, specifically in my field of interest do pay off. In short, this aid and motivation will hopefully guide me to greater success in my life.