Meet Raina Garland, Shad2024 Alum and Recipient of Shad’s Entrance Scholarship for Indigenous Students
Q: Tell us a bit about yourself.
Hello, my name is Raina Garland and this year I was a part of ShadOnCampus at ULethbridge in Alberta. I am going into grade 11, which made me the younger year of the Shad program. I was a recipient of the Scholarship for Indigenous Students and I’m from Winnipeg, Manitoba. In my spare time I enjoy running, playing volleyball and doing other activities.
Q: What was the biggest takeaway from your Shad experience?
My biggest takeaway from my Shad experience was to always be myself and try everything even if it is something new. Normally I try to change my personality to fit others around me but at Shad I got to realize that acting like myself will connect me with great people, like the ones at Shad. As well, by trying everything I opened many new doors and allowed myself to experience great things in the program.
Q: At Shad we are leaders in social innovation, how do you plan to use #STEAM4Good?
I plan to use #STEAM4Good by pursuing more of my interests in STEAM itself. I hope to work in the medical field once I graduate from university and hope to make a change for women and young Indigenous girls in STEAM.
Q: What lessons would you share with incoming Shads?
I would tell them to talk to as many people as possible because no one there will judge you and everyone is wanting to talk to everyone. Do not be afraid that someone will judge you for coming up to them. Every single person on the ULethbridge campus was so kind and open, which allowed us all to have a tight bond. So yes, that would be the lesson I’d share: to always open up to people and make as many connections as early as you can.
