Impact Stories

Louna grew up in Ain El Helweh Camp in Saida in a strong and supportive family. She and her parents, three brothers, and one sister are close. “My family believes in me,” says Louna. Like so many people in Lebanon today, Louna’s family is struggling financially. “The current circumstances in Lebanon have affected us – financially and emotionally. All essentials (like food, transportation, etc.) are very expensive now because of the collapse of the Lebanese lira.”

For as long as she can remember, Louna has had big dreams – of being successful and making a difference in the world. These dreams motivated her to work hard and do well in school so that she could go to a good university. “It means a lot to me to be able to attend AUB,” she says. “I needed a scholarship though because my family is in a tough financial situation. I am very grateful and blessed to be receiving the Talal Nasereddin Scholarship.” Louna is not the first one in her family to be selected to receive a scholarship. Her sister, Ghina (BS Biology ’11, MD ’15), was fully supported by the Oussama Aboughazale Scholarship. Louna and Ghina’s brother, Nader (BE Mechanical Engineering ’11, received support from the Oussama Aboughazale Scholarship, the Matiel Mogannam Endowed Scholarship, and the Husni Ahmad Sawwaf Scholarship.

Louna is hoping to pursue a master’s degree in cosmetics after she graduates from AUB with a major in chemistry and minor in psychology. “I want to start my own business and brand,” she explains. She also wants to become a life coach so she can help people who are struggling with mental health issues.