Q: Tell us a bit about yourself.

My name is Sydney, and I am a grade 11 student from Owen Sound, Ontario. If I were to describe myself in only one word, I would say I am a philomath. I am always striving to learn, create, and grow, and have a wide range of interests, from ecology to languages to science. In addition to academics, I enjoy hobbies such as playing the piano, painting, and reading. Something I feel strongly about is getting involved in the community, so I always try to integrate that into my interests. For example, I just recently participated in a regional envirothon competition due to my interest in promoting sustainability, and my team and I will be moving on to provincials. This passion for community involvement also relates to my job. I work as a lifeguard and swim instructor at my local YMCA, where I am able to get involved with my community and help shape the next generation.

Q: Why do you want to participate in the Shad program/ What are you most looking forward to?

I am excited and grateful for the opportunity to participate in Shad that this scholarship has provided me. This is an amazing program and offers so many opportunities that I am eager to take advantage of. For example, throughout this year, I have begun looking at different possible university programs, and I believe that Shad is a great time to experience what that next step in my life may look like. I will be attending lectures, participating in university level courses, and exploring important issues with my peers, all of which I hope will reflect the university experience. I am also excited to meet people with the same interests as myself, all with a thirst to learn.

Q: What motivates or sparks your curiosity in STEAM and/or entrepreneurship?   

The reason I am so interested in STEAM is because it represents such a broad range of disciplines. I believe that STEAM programs are a great way to determine your likes and interests, which will help narrow my focus, and direct me towards a specific path in post secondary. 

Q: How do you envision your future?
With regards to my future, I have many goals. For example, I want to travel and experience the diverse cultures of the world. Over time, however, I have come to realize that, though having specific goals for your life is necessary, it is really your general aim that matters. The biggest goal I have is to leave something behind after my time; to live a meaningful life and leave the world better than I found it.

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Want to meet the other Indigenous Scholars? Read their stories