It has been an absolutely amazing and challenging experience. I am so grateful for the knowledge that I have gained this year and for the diverse group of people I had the chance to meet. The university has lived up to all of my expectations; I have seen that it is an innovative, world-class institution.

Academically, I experienced the fascinating math and computer science courses offered by Waterloo’s Faculty of Mathematics. I learned how interesting and broad the field of mathematics truly is! I also learned that I enjoy computer programming, and I am considering doing a minor in that discipline. In my Wilfrid Laurier University business courses, I learned about how organizations achieve business success and about how the economy functions. Overall, the first year of my program was academically rigorous and extremely rewarding.

Outside of academics, I participated in extra-curricular activities and socialized with a diverse group of friends. I was an International Peer Mentor to a Korean exchange student, so I helped her adjust to life in Canada both culturally and academically. I was also the Director of Marketing for the Double Degree Club (the club representing my academic program). In my free time, I spent time with friends from countries including Brazil, Switzerland, Pakistan, France, Mexico, and Morocco.

The attached photo shows me receiving recognition for the Schulich Leader Scholarship at the Faculty of Mathematics Awards Banquet in January. I feel so grateful and proud to be part of the inaugural Schulich Leaders. Thank you to Seymour Schulich and the UJA Federation of Greater Toronto for the honour and opportunity you have given me. I look forward to seeing the Schulich Leaders Network expand in the years to come!