French Major Awa Cisse Featured in Yale News
Recent YC ‘24 French Major, Awa Cisse, was splotlighted in Yale News as part of a group of exceptional members of the Class of 2024, among them poets, pianists, scientists, environmentalists, and an Olympic gold medalist. Awa was also recognized by Yale News for her achievements in March 2024 for being named a Luce Fellow.
Congraluations, encore Awa!
Yale College 2024: Meet some of the graduates
Awa Cisse
Awa Cisse
There’s a word that carries deep cultural meaning in Awa Cisse’s native Senegal; Téranga, which comes from the Wolof language, connotes the values of selflessness and generosity, and the importance of giving back to one’s community.
For Cisse, the word téranga isn’t just a reminder of her Senegalese roots, it’s a sort of guidepost for how she wants to live her life.
As a young, girl she frequented hospitals for a variety of reasons and developed an appreciation for just how many people it takes to provide patient care. “There is this whole ecosystem of care, from the people who greet you at the front door to those who assist you when you’re leaving,” said Cisse, who came to Yale as part of the Eli Whitney Students Program.
“Every single piece of the puzzle is important, and it all helps make everything work. This is what inspired me to pursue a life in health care.”