Yousif Al Atbi

Hometown

Fairfax, VA (Fairfax High School)

Academic Interests

Pre-Med, Biology, Public Health

Why W&M

Throughout the college application season, I knew very little about what I wanted from the college I’d be attending for four years. Although I had scoured the U.S. College Rankings for the “best” schools, I was left unsure of which school I would feel at home, and I worried about the possibility of not finding the best fit for me. I decided to apply to many different schools, and I’d worry about which one felt right at a later date.

Eventually, that later date came. I had received all my acceptances and now had to make a decision that would not only change where I would be, but also who I would be surrounded by during college. I visited the school I always said I'd attend, yet something felt off. I couldn’t tell what it was; however, I couldn’t quite brush off that unanticipated feeling. And so, when I received the email informing me I was a 1693 Semi-Finalist, William & Mary soared to the top of my list.

Heading into Finalist Weekend, I was scared. Not only about not getting the scholarship, but also about the possibility of not fitting in. Stepping into the Murray House for the first time immediately relinquished those fears. The 1693 community stuck out to me right away as being exactly what I wanted—a welcoming, friendly environment, and most importantly, a place that felt like home. William & Mary was not too far from home, and as I learned from Finalist Weekend, the campus was stunning and hosts countless research opportunities. In the end, I didn’t have to put any thought into choosing William & Mary when I got the phone call from Dr. Cristol informing me that I was selected as a 1693 Scholar.

High School Activities

Head of Research & Development, ScamCops 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization
Teacher's Assistant, Virginia Arabic Language School
Finance Officer, Model U.N
Vice President of Events, Computer Science Honors Society
Nephrologist Shadow
AI Intern, Cydeo
Club Soccer
Guest Advocate, Target
Receptionist, Ourisman Toyota

Awards / Distinctions

1st Place Regional Shark Tank Tech Competition
Volunteer of the Year, Vienna Arabic Language School
National Merit Commended Scholar
AP Scholar with Distinction
Seal of Biliteracy - English & Spanish