Comradery through STEM, Leadership, and Excellence
Payman is from Chicago, where his journey as a refugee shaped a deep appreciation for education, community, and the power of opportunity. After spending his early childhood without access to formal schooling, he embraced every chance to learn, excelling in rigorous research programs, presenting ecological research at a prestigious scientific conference, and earning a place in the highly selective MITES program. Inspired by witnessing a medical evacuation helicopter during wartime, Payman developed a fascination with engineering and hopes to use technology to improve lives in times of crisis. Beyond the classroom, he has served as a peer mentor with REACH, educated others about international humanitarian law through the American Red Cross, and empowered fellow first-generation Americans to engage in civic life. This fall, Payman will attend Columbia University, where he plans to study engineering and continue combining technical innovation with humanitarian service. Guided by resilience, curiosity, and gratitude for those who invested in him, Payman is determined to build solutions that create opportunity and hope for communities around the world.
Leadership:
- Non-profit Senior Peer Mentor at REACH
- Lead Coordinator at Red Cross Youth Action Campaign
- Community Coordinator at Illinois Senator Mike Simmons
