Centennial Collegiate Vocational Institute grade 12 student Andres GS., has recently been named a recipient of the prestigious Wolf scholarship from the University of Toronto.
The Wolf scholarship is awarded to 16 incoming undergraduates to the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Arts and Science program. Over four years, these 16 students will engage in an enrichment program that includes academic seminars, world class internship opportunities, fully funded international and domestic educational travel, mentorship and leadership opportunities. Wolf Scholars also receive a fully funded educational experience for their four years at the university, including a $10,000 annual living stipend.
In the fall, Andres applied for the opportunity and was nominated by Centennial CVI. He was then selected as a semi-finalist in January. Before being selected for the scholarship, he was invited to a full weekend of interviews and experiences in Toronto with the other finalists.
When reflecting on learning the news of the scholarship, Andres said, “I was ecstatic when I heard the news! I was at home when my phone started ringing, and I learned that the head of the Wolf Scholars Recruitment team was calling my phone! When I heard the good news, I was left completely speechless -- I am pretty sure only noises came out of my mouth for a solid 10 seconds before I proudly yelled I would 100% be accepting the scholarship! I celebrated by sharing the news with my family immediately and then going to an Ice cream shop right after!”
Regarding this opportunity, Andres said he’s most looking forward to, “joining the cohort of 16 Wolf Scholars through the exclusive Seminars at the at the Munk School of Public Policy & Global Affairs and all the national and international trips included to places of consequence.”
Although not entirely sure what his future studies will look like, Andres said he’s thinking of studying Mathematics and Economics or Bioinformatics and Computational Biology.
Thinking about the process of applying for and getting this scholarship, Andres credits his educational experiences at Centennial CVI, and all the guidance he received from his teachers and guidance counsellor.
According to one of Andres’ teachers, Caitlin O’Brien, “Words can't describe the joy and celebrations that have been happening this week as he and his family process this incredible news. It is a phenomenal accomplishment and a life-changing opportunity for him. Andres' kindness, energy, and brilliant mind have positively impacted so many staff and students over his years at Centennial. We know that he will be a key part of this inaugural group of Wolf Scholars!”
Congratulations, Andres. We look forward to hearing about the amazing things you accomplish with your post-secondary education!