Scholarship Spotlight: Ahmed, Basant and Alaan

Sending one student to college can be a financial challenge for families. But sending three? At once? 

That is exactly the scenario the Ibrahim family faced when high-achieving triplets Ahmed, Basant and Alaan were simultaneously accepted to college at Delaware Technical Community College. The trio graduated from Concord High School in Wilmington, Delaware with impressive GPAs of 3.7, 3.8 and 4.0, respectively, as well  as some lofty educational goals.

Their four years of hard work paid off, and they were able to call upon the resources available from the Leon N. Weiner Education Foundation (LNWEF) to assist with college scholarships for not one, not two, but all three of the siblings.

A consistent history of excellence

This is not the first time that the family has benefitted from the scholarship opportunities available through LNWEF. During their school years, the triplets were able to participate in numerous educational field trips, events and activities through special LNWEF enrichment scholarships. 

Those opportunities helped shape the trio’s high school experience. And their achievements were as diverse as the trio itself, ranging from writing a children’s book, to working on Student Government, to holding down a job while still in school, to participating in the school’s Black Student Union.

Focused on success

Today, their interests are firmly focused on their future. For example, Ahmed is enrolled in Del Tech's Business Administration Transfer (BAT) Program. This Associate's degree program will provide the coursework necessary for him to transfer to a four-year college of business, such as the University of Delaware. To learn even more, Ahmed has already joined the University’s Finance Club, which focuses on stock market simulations. 

Basant’s interest, however, lies in Radiologic Technology. Burgeoning technology has changed healthcare, and radiology is an exciting part of the new landscape. An Associate’s degree in Radiologic Technology is another one of Del Tech’s “Connected Degree Programs” which will enable Basant to transfer to a four-year degree program as a junior.

And Alaan has her sights set on a Physical Therapist Assistant degree, an interest which developed through personal experience when she injured her back and rehabbed with a Physical Therapist. This program will prepare her to become a licensed healthcare worker, providing physical therapy services under the direction of a physical therapist. However, this is also a Connected Degree 2+2 Curriculum, and Alaan will be able to pursue a four-year degree upon completion.   

New challenges. Same faces.

Since the triplets are all attending Del Tech, college already feels familiar. And, when you are a triplet, there are some things that never change. People will occasionally mix you up (Basant and Alaan). You never feel alone. Or they may nickname you simply, “Triplet” (Ahmed). 

But, according to the Ibrahims, the best part is the close, unshakeable bond that the three share. Throughout their school years, the siblings spent vacations, school days, and even free time together. They supported each other through thick and thin, helping one another with homework, papers, and projects, as well as cheering each other on to success. 

That closeness was inspired by their mother, who each cites as a major influence in their lives, as well as their common pursuit of academic achievement. As a role model, she has encouraged each of them to always be the best version of themselves. And, with these three, it looks like the sky’s the limit!