Support from legal community improves access for law students
Students Mryam Sarkis (left) and Shanté Brown, who both received financial awards, begin their studies at Ryerson Law this fall.
Ryerson law welcomed its first cohort of students earlier this month and, thanks to the generosity of supporters in the legal profession, many will be able to focus on their studies instead of their finances. Incoming law student Shanté Brown received the McCarthy Tétrault LLP Scholarship, and Mryam Sarkis is the recipient of the Omar Ha-Redeye Social Justice Award, created by the Ryerson alumnus and professor.
“The scholarship is life-changing,” says Brown, who has a degree in justice studies from the University of Guelph-Humber and volunteered with Jane Harvey and Associates prior to coming to Ryerson. Brown mentions experiencing imposter syndrome despite her acceptance into Ryerson Law: “But the scholarship made me feel like I’m supposed to be here,” she says. “It gives me confidence and is extremely motivating.”