FCS Student Awards: Perspectives and tips from student winners

Sophia’s grant helped fund her international work placement in Nairobi, Kenya, at MP Shah Hospital, Obstetrical Department — one of the best private hospitals in the country. Born and raised in the global south, Sophia wanted to experience the health care system there and better understand what it would take to work collaboratively once she becomes a registered midwife.

What impact did the award have? Since my children had to fly with me, the cost of travel was exorbitant — not to mention the additional cost of housing and daycare in Nairobi. The award reduced my financial burden and made the placement possible without leaving my family behind. On site, I worked with physicians and nurses at the hospital and built lots of connections. At no other point in my career will it be as straightforward to do an assignment in the global south. So, I’m grateful for this opportunity of a lifetime!

Tips for students: This award helps eliminate what’s for most people the biggest obstacle to pursuing international electives -- finances. So, I encourage all students to just take the first step and simply apply. Overall, it’s a simple process — but do it early since some awards may ask you for a recommendation from a faculty member.

As a mature Indigenous student who persevered through many obstacles and adversities, Brandon transformed his life, beginning with upgrading his education in mental health and addiction. He’s now completing his bachelor’s degree, with plans to pursue his master’s degree in social work. He’s a positive role model for his community — showing what First Nation peoples can achieve with commitment, perseverance and support — and an inspiration for future generations in truth and reconciliation.

What impact did the award have? I was honoured by the recognition. It has inspired me to fulfill my full potential. I envision using knowledge and skills to support my community with the development of mental health strategies and making those resources more readily available for First Nation peoples. I dedicate much time and effort to academic achievement, which places my wellness at a deficit. This award helped me maintain a balance in my professional, personal and academic life.

Tips for students: Beyond financial help, FCS awards are an opportunity to enhance self-esteem, and foster appreciation for hard work, dedication and resiliency, both professionally and personally. Going through the awards process gives you a sense of community, and opens your eyes to accessible and available support designed to assist in achieving your educational goals.

During her undergrad, Sachi caught the research bug and landed an opportunity with the International and Canadian Child Rights Partnership (ICCRP) — an organization that not only studies children’s rights but includes young people in the actual research. She was thrilled to win her first research-related award so early on her path towards a research-centred career.

What impact did the award have? It helped meet my student expenses, enabling me to devote more time to research, and it inspired me to further my education. Being supported in research impacted my life positively — pushing me in directions I’d never considered and encouraging me to see how capable I really am. I’m now pursuing my master’s degree and could not be happier with my decision to strive higher than what I’d originally aimed for!

Tips for students: In the past, I often held back, doubting my abilities and thinking I wasn’t the ‘best fit’. But since then, I’ve applied for and received several awards! Don’t limit yourself; you never know what could happen. Network and form healthy connections with faculty/supervisors because many applications ask for references. Awards not only remind you of your capabilities and achievements but are also useful in future endeavors.

After researching a niche topic on virtual food systems, Kiera wanted to present her work at the Canadian Association of Food Studies Conference. With the grant, Kiera attended as part of a panel of digital food scholars to discuss cooking programs that address student food insecurity. 

What impact did the award have? I was so excited to find out I’d been selected because the funding put the conference within reach for me financially. It covered my student membership, conference registration fees and transportation costs. I was grateful for the chance to gain presentation experience, meet researchers from across the country, and learn about the interdisciplinary application of food studies. It underscored how important food studies and systems are to my current field of urban planning.

Tips for students: Definitely apply for FCS awards, and make sure to start your application early enough to gather all your materials before submission. Now that conferences are resuming in person, it’s super informative to meet others who are working in your field, see how they approach shared research topics and gain experience presenting your work. Sometimes, unexpected opportunities are the most impactful on your professional development — and FCS awards can definitely facilitate this.