'AUC Saw Beyond Labels'

“I want to take this moment to express my deepest gratitude for welcoming Omar and me and for creating an environment where Omar can thrive not despite being autistic, but through it,” said Hala Ibrahim Zaydan, parent of Omar Sharaf El Din ’25, as she accepted an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters at the June 2025 commencement ceremony, during which Sharaf El Din graduated. 

Though the family originally worried about Sharaf El Din’s adjustment to university life, with the help of AUC’s accommodations, Sharaf El Din graduated with a Bachelor of Science in mathematics. His mother was awarded an honorary doctorate for her dedication to her son’s studies and commitment to promoting inclusion at AUC.

“[Zaydan] worked closely with AUC faculty, administrators and the Center for Student Wellbeing to strengthen support systems for students with disabilities,” reads her honorary degree citation. “Her efforts have not only guided her son’s academic success but also extended to assisting other students on campus, reflecting her commitment to empathy, collaboration and community. Her contributions exemplify the values of accessibility, integrity and inclusion that AUC upholds.”

"Her contributions exemplify the values of accessibility, integrity and inclusion that AUC upholds."

With the help of AUC’s accessibility initiatives, Zaydan was able to accompany Sharaf El Din to classes as his aide. As his mother, Zaydan knows her son’s specific needs and has been shadowing him since Grade 5, ensuring he received a quality education. She left her profession as a dermatologist to help Sharaf El Din in school and advocate for disability support.

With inclusion as one of its core tenants, AUC ensured both Sharaf El Din and Zaydan were thoroughly supported. The Center for Student Wellbeing worked with the family to provide standard accommodations for his course load, note-taking and exams. “AUC believed in him and saw beyond labels,” said Zaydan. “The University was incredibly flexible and brought out the best in Omar without unnecessary pressure. The mathematics faculty were also very supportive and made every effort to respond effectively to Omar’s needs. They are providing guidance and support to help him find a suitable job.”

“AUC believed in him and saw beyond labels."

For Zaydan, learning math alongside her son was a departure from the material she was used to studying, but she was dedicated to providing Sharaf El Din with total support. She appreciated the English classes required of AUC as well as the liberal arts curriculum. Zaydan’s favorite class was ancient Egyptian studies, to which she joked, “Maybe I’ll do a master’s next!”