Karim Ibrahim Abouhassan
Cairo, Egypt.
Class of 2020.
Do you ever wonder what it’s like being an international student attending SLU? How about being an international athlete? Well, we got the chance to talk to Karim, a member of St. Lawrence’s Squash team, and here is what he has to say about it!
1-What brought you to the States?
“After winning the U.S Junior Open in 2013, college squash coaches came to me after the final match to show their interest. At that time, I was 16 years of age, and my English wasn’t very good. When I went back home, I discussed everything with my dad, and we had a long argument about whether I should put effort into trying to capture one of those opportunities, or if I should keep pursuing my dream of becoming a professional squash player.
After months of arguing, my dad convinced me to prioritize academics over sports. Therefore, I moved to the states to get a better education, and to find a credible university, while still playing my favorite sport. As a result, I accepted an offer from St. George’s School, a private boarding school in Newport, Rhode Island. I was ready to start a new journey in a new country while receiving the best education possible.”
2-Why did you choose St. Lawrence in particular?
“As we all know, the college process is not the best time. However, in the fall of my senior year, Coach Apblanalp, the squash coach here at St. Lawrence, approached me and invited me to come up for a visit. During the visit, the Admissions staff, Squash team, and everyone else I met were really kind to me. I felt it was a bigger version of my high school, St. George’s. In addition, SLU provided a rigorous academic program and had great alumni connections. I decided that I wanted to spend the next fours years of my life here in Canton.”
3-What is your favorite part about going to school in a different country than your own?
“Self-dependence and maturity, creating long lasting friendships, and appreciating how family is the most important part of life.”
4-If you could describe your St. Lawrence experience thus far in three words, what would they be?
“Fun, challenging, and mysterious”
5-What challenges do you face as an international student?
“I actually don’t feel like I face any challenges as an international student. I feel that I’m well oriented and that I have adapted to the lifestyle here at SLU very well. Maybe it is because I previously attended a boarding school here in the states for two years prior to college. However, the one thing that will always exist is that I miss being with my parents and my brother. I wish there was a transportation method that could take me home to Egypt every other weekend in the blink of an eye, and then quickly take me back to my home here in Canton as well.”