Rayya Haider
CAS + Wharton ’27
Huntsman Program
GRIP: Swicorp Infra Capital (SIC) in Tunis
SA: American University in Cairo Â
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- being the only Penn student in a direct-placement internship
- building a professional and social network from scratch
- solo travel in North Africa and the Middle East
- navigating study abroad during sudden regional conflicts
My GRIP experience in Tunis was unique because it was a direct placement rather than a cohort program. I was the only student in my program and the only American at my internship, so I spent three months building relationships and navigating a professional environment from scratch.
My study abroad experience in Cairo was unique for a very different reason: I was abroad during the outbreak of the Israel-Iran conflict. Some students were even evacuated, which meant that our experience abroad required us to stay informed, remain flexible, and make decisions amid rapidly changing circumstances.
My Experience Abroad
My experiences abroad connected directly to both sides of my Huntsman education: my academic focus on finance and the Middle East, and my goal of developing advanced Arabic language skills.
In Tunis, my internship at Sustainable Infra Capital allowed me to apply my Wharton coursework in a real investment setting. I worked on financial models, infrastructure research, and legal documents while gaining a deeper understanding of project finance and private equity. More importantly, I saw how finance can help address challenges I care deeply about, particularly through renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure. Working on projects across Africa and the Middle East also complemented my International Studies coursework by showing me how investment decisions intersect with different governments, markets, and regulatory environments.
Other Highlights
- Snorkeling in the Blue Hole and other spots along the Red Sea and Sinai Peninsula: I saw some of the most incredible marine life.
- Attending an Amr Diab concert as well as outdoor concerts right by the Pyramids and the Red Sea
-  Exploring the ancient Pharaohs’ tombs in Luxor, including the remarkably preserved tomb of Seti I
- Experiencing both Eid holidays in Old Cairo and seeing the city come alive with celebrations, family gatherings, and festivities.
- Exploring the ancient ruins of Carthage and visiting the Colosseum of El Jem, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world.
