2023-24 President's Scholars

Raneem Awad

James H. Jones President’s Scholar

Major: Architecture

College of Environmental Design

Activities: Intern, Karabachian Design Office

One Word to Describe CPP: “Ambition. Studying alongside exceptional classmates and under the guidance of dedicated instructors within a positive studio environment has personally motivated me to give my best.”

The challenges of growing up in war-torn Syria have shaped Raneem’s resliency and gratitude for life’s blessings. Despite the uncertainties, Raneem remained focused on her desire to study architecture, which combines her passions for art, science and service. She immigrated to the United States at 19 years old, balancing three jobs to support her family while earning three associate degrees with a 4.0 GPA. A firm believer in the power of compassion, Raneem’s work with Ventura College’s Architecture Club to build low-income housing in Tijuana showed her first-hand “that acts of service show importance of teamwork and can have profound impactson improving the lives of others.” On campus, her efforts have led to her nomination for the National Society of Leadership and Success and a fourth-year study abroad opportunity at Biberarch University of Applied Sciences in Germany. Raneem’s parents have guided her efforts, and she hopes to pay tribute to them by building a home for them in addition to making a postive impact for others through her designs.