Kevin Prada is all smiles after being awarded his Alumni Association Scholarship. // Photo credit La Liberté
Alumni Association Scholarship applications now open
Thousands of dollars available to UM students pursuing their educational goals
Kevin Prada has always had a passion for mentoring and helping others. Through his studies at UM, he intends to one day become a clinical psychologist, specializing in treating LGBTQ2S patients. And after applying for an Alumni Association Scholarship, he’s a step closer to achieving those goals, both educationally and financially.
“It’s encouraging for my academic and research pursuits to be recognized this way,” says Prada, a third year honours psychology student, after learning he was one of this year’s scholarship recipients. “I was elated. Funding such as this goes a long way in reducing financial burdens involved with postsecondary studies and allows me to focus more on my studies and to giving back to the community.”
Tia Feroce knows that feeling too. She begins studying for her bachelor of science degree at UM this fall after being awarded her entrance scholarship.
“It’s a confidence boost in the sense that you may have never met these people reviewing your application, however, they are able to see your academic achievements so far, the drive that you have and what you want to offer to the world,” explains Feroce. “With that, it’s their way of saying they support you in your educational journey, which is a wonderful feeling.”
Feroce plans to eventually go to medical school and ultimately wants to become a family physician, following in her mother’s footsteps and focusing on bringing treatments to isolated First Nations communities in northern Manitoba.
There are three distinct Alumni Association Scholarships available for students at every stage of their education and applications are now being accepted for the 2022-2023 academic year:
- Entrance Scholarship – for students entering the university who have submitted the best essays on the topic of becoming future alumni. One or more scholarships, with a minimum value of $1,000 each.
- Community Leadership Scholarship – for undergraduate students who have demonstrated extraordinary extracurricular involvement at UM. One or more scholarships, with a minimum value of $1,000 each.
- Graduate Fellowship – for graduate students who are entering the first year of a research-based PhD program and have demonstrated intellectual ability and academic accomplishments. This scholarship can be renewed for up to three years. All inquiries should be directed to the Faculty of Graduate Studies Awards.
“There are so many opportunities for everyone at UM despite whatever situation you may be in now,” continues Feroce. “When it comes to applying for scholarships, a small amount of your time can make a big difference.”
“Don’t ever be afraid to apply! Do it!” encourages Prada. “Pursue your goals and never stop, even when hardships or hurdles come your way.”
The deadline to apply for the Alumni Association’s Entrance Scholarship, Community Leadership Scholarship and Graduate Fellowship is Monday, Aug. 1, 2022. For more information, visit the Alumni Association webpage.