After graduation, Areen plans to attend the University of Memphis. While she is still exploring her academic path, she knows her interests lie in healthcare and the medical field. "I'm very interested in healthcare and medical,” Areen said. “I’m still figuring out exactly where I want to go from there.”

Born in Jordan to a Palestinian-Jordanian family, Areen moved to Tennessee with her family in 2015 when she was 8 years old. Arriving in the United States without speaking English was a major transition, but one she navigated with determination and resilience. “It was very interesting,” she said. “I was the only one who didn’t speak the language, and I was different. But I got used to it, and America is my second home now.”

After attending Cordova and Dexter elementary schools and Cordova Middle School, Areen and her brother returned to Jordan during middle school to strengthen their Arabic language skills. She came back to the United States in 2023 and enrolled at Cordova High, reconnecting with familiar faces while building new friendships and continuing to excel. 

One of Areen’s most meaningful high school experiences was participating in a persuasive speech competition where she spoke about Palestine, a topic deeply connected to her heritage and identity. “I was able to speak about something very personal and meaningful while sharing my perspective with others in a respectful way,” she said.

For Areen, high school has included its share of challenges, from balancing academics and personal growth to adjusting to new environments. Through it all, she has remained grounded in her faith and committed to becoming the best version of herself.

“Stay true to yourself and trust God,” she said. “High school isn’t just about grades or achievements. It’s also about using your voice, supporting others, and continuing to grow as a person.”

Mrs. Ortega, Areen’s English teacher and mentor, describes her as a student whose commitment to excellence and service sets her apart. “Areen is an exceptional student whose academic excellence, leadership, and extraordinary commitment to service distinguish her among her peers,” Mrs. Ortega said. “She is the most service-oriented student I know and genuinely thrives on helping others.”

Mrs. Ortega first taught Areen in English III Honors during her junior year and later invited her to serve as her teacher’s assistant, a role Irene continued throughout her senior year. Their relationship quickly grew into one of mentorship and mutual respect. “She believed in me, encouraged me, and is someone I truly look up to,” Areen said.

As she prepares to begin the next chapter of her journey, Areen leaves behind a powerful example of resilience, leadership, and authenticity. Whether speaking up for causes close to her heart, mentoring younger students, or pursuing a future in healthcare, she has demonstrated that success is built not only on achievement, but on courage, compassion, and a willingness to grow.