STUDENTS from two of Surrey’s secondary schools are among the 2023 Loran Finalists vying for a prestigious scholarship offered by the Loran Scholars Foundation.
Grade 12 students Sonya Chatterjee of Semiahmoo Secondary and Muhaddisa Sarwari of Fraser Heights Secondary have made the list of 90 shortlisted candidates, selected from nearly 4,800 students nationwide.
Chatterjee and Sarwari were chosen following semifinal interviews to identify key qualities of Loran Scholars, including demonstrated perseverance when faced with adversity, kindness, a sense of curiosity and sparks of leadership potential.
Both students now await national selections in February to determine if they are named two of this year’s Loran Scholars.
The Loran Award is valued at $100,000 over four years, comprised of a $10,000 living stipend and up to $10,000 in tuition waiver per year from 25 partner universities, one-on-one mentorship, up to $14,000 in funding for tri-sectoral summer work experiences, annual gatherings and a weeklong orientation expedition with Outward Bound.
If not selected as a Loran Scholar, finalists are eligible for a $5,000 award that can be used at any Canadian public university.
Story and photos: Surrey Schools