Two Grade 11 students from Oromocto High School have been selected to participate in an award-winning program that empowers exceptional high school students to recognize their capabilities and envision their true potential.
Lydia Wilkes and Carolyn Murphy are among more than 900 students from across Canada and internationally to take part in the SHAD program this coming July. SHAD involves a month-long program, in residence at a Canadian university that is focused on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math). The immersive program offers lectures, workshops, projects and activities with top university professors, business leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators. Once SHAD participants graduate from high school, they are often eligible for other awards and scholarships.
After graduation, Lydia Wilkes plans to attend university to obtain a science degree and then enter medical school. When she heard about the SHAD program, she knew she wanted to be a part of it. She will be attending the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon as a SHAD participant.
"I loved everything it seemed to stand for and I wanted to do something meaningful with my summer," Wilkes said. "I definitely lean more into science and I would love to explore all aspects of STEAM. I think SHAD will provide me with opportunities and the push that no other program could. I also hope to learn more about leadership and entrepreneurial skills as well."
Carolyn Murphy is interested in astronomy and aerospace engineering, but has not yet decided on a final career choice. She loves math, but within STEAM science is her field of expertise. She knew the SHAD program could offer her a unique, summer learning experience among like-minded people. She will be attending Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario as a SHAD participant.
"From this program, I think I'll learn the true meaning of teamwork and the importance of exploration," Murphy said. "I will be able to develop new skills, make lifelong friendships, prepare for my future, explore my career options and strengthen my love for STEAM. Programs like SHAD are important because it encourages youth to unleash their potential, be involved in their community, and become leaders."
SHAD is a registered Canadian non-profit organization which relies on the generosity of corporate, foundation and individual donations to support youth in building life skills, learning and leadership skills, while also preparing them to make strong positive impacts on their careers and communities.
About 60 per cent of SHAD participants are female. However, the program is open to all youth from every walk of life.
Other students participating in SHAD from ASD-W are Vanshika Khaitan, Benjamin Liang, Cynthia Cui and Bianca Cruz from Fredericton High; Heidi Hunter and Angel Cote from John Caldwell School in Grand Falls; Milo Boutin from Cambridge Narrows Community School; and Soo Min Park, Regan Barry and Dhanista Ambwani from Leo Hayes High School.
Shown in the photo below are Lydia Wilkes, left, and Carolyn Murphy, Grade 11 students at Oromocto High School, who have been selected to participate in the SHAD program at a Canadian university this coming July.
