Auburn University Student Earns: An Auburn University grad student, Fisher Rizk, earned a special honor from Gov. Kay Ivey in October. Recognized as the Alabama Student of the Year by Ivey and the Governors Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, Rizk, pursuing a Master of Engineering Management degree, received the award at an Oct. 13 ceremony. This event, organized by the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services, aimed to celebrate successful individuals with disabilities and employers supporting them.
During the ceremony, Ivey emphasized the importance of matching people with the right jobs, not just reducing unemployment. As October marked National Disability Awareness Month, the event honored those fostering inclusivity in the workforce.
Hailing from Arab, Ala., Rizk faced a spinal cord injury in 2015. His journey led him to discover a passion for wheelchair basketball, and Auburn University provided the opportunity he sought. Joining Auburn’s wheelchair basketball team in 2017, Rizk witnessed its evolution from a recreational team to a competitive intercollegiate squad.
I was actually the first ever college recruit to commit to the team, Rizk said. Despite the initial challenges, the team transformed over the years and is now a top contender for a national championship.
Rizk, an active team member until 2022, balanced his athletic pursuits with academic dedication, earning an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering. Reflecting on his chemical engineering journey, he expressed genuine appreciation for the subject.
As he continues his master’s degree, Rizk values the significance of the award. Yet, he remains mindful of others facing their unique challenges.
Every one of those students has challenges in their life that they have to overcome to achieve their goals. It just so happens that my challenges are visible to others, Rizk said. So, I hope that in being recognized for this award, I can inspire others to overcome their struggles to achieve their goals.
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Our Reader’s Queries
What is the average income at Auburn University?
Curious about the earning potential of Auburn University graduates and which majors bring in the most cash? Post-graduation, alumni pull in an average annual income of $40,300 six years after starting their journey. Fast forward to the ten-year mark and that number jumps to $54,100. Wondering which majors lead to these lucrative paychecks?
How much do Auburn graduates make?
According to data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and Department of Treasury, Auburn University alumni who are employed and out of school for 10 years have an average income of $54,100. This is significantly higher, by 58%, compared to the national median income.
Does Auburn give a lot of financial aid?
In fall 2021, 37% of new students at Auburn University received an average need-based scholarship or grant of $11,608. This financial aid helps cover tuition costs and other expenses. Plus, students can also get federal loans and work-study opportunities as part of their need-based aid.
Is Auburn University an elite school?
Ranked as a leading research institution, we are one of the best in the country. But what really sets us apart is our close-knit community, known as the “Auburn Family,” which includes a network of 250,000 alumni spread across the world.