Ahshar Brown

We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible journey and achievements of Ahshar Brown. After graduating from North Star Academy- Washington Park with an impressive GPA well over a 4.0, Ahshar has continued to shine academically at Emory University. Initially starting as a computer science major, Ahshar soon realized that coding at the college level wasn’t her true passion. Initially, Ahshar was hesitant to switch majors and was determined to not be deemed as “someone who gives up,” however after conducting research, speaking with professors, and working closely with advisors, Ahshar made the strategic shift to focus on biomedical engineering while maintaining her major in biology. This change has invigorated her and she now feels amazing about the direction of her studies!

While balancing her academic pursuits, Ahshar works at Emory University Law School and actively participates in various student organizations, including the Emory Biotech Club and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), serving as their Publicity Chair for NSBE. Additionally, as the newly elected Vice President for the Association of Caribbean Educators and Students, Ahshar works closely with other groups for collaboration  and funding opportunities and to promote Caribbean culture! 

Ahshar has also been able to further explore her interest in Korean culture since high school. Initially attending a Study Abroad Korean Fair, Ahshar later took the steps to apply for the Gilman Scholarship, which would cover her study abroad costs. This past summer, Ahshar’s dream to immerse herself in Korean culture was materialized when she was accepted and funded to participate in the Emory South Korea Study Abroad Program at Yonsei University. This transformative experience not only broadened her cultural perspective, but also demonstrated her adventurous spirit and willingness to embrace new challenges. Reflecting on this experience, Ahshar shared, “As a student, I was willing to learn new things and experience more outside of my comfort zone in a new country. I learned that when I travel, I am extremely open and willing to try or do anything. I ate every food, wore traditional Korean clothes, and got out of my comfort zone by talking with natives in their tongue. I will forever say that this trip was life-changing.”

Looking ahead, as a proud first-generation college student of Guyanese descent, Ahshar is ready to continue breaking barriers and increase cultural representation in the field of bioinformatics and aims to pursue a Master’s degree in the field. Ahshar Brown’s story is one of passion, self-reflection, vulnerability, and the pursuit of excellence. We are incredibly proud of Ahshar and look forward to seeing all the great things she will accomplish in the years to come!