“߲ݴý Aligns Perfectly with My Goals” — Anna Paterson, President’s Scholarship Recipient Chooses ߲ݴý
For Anna Paterson, choosing ߲ݴý was about more than academics—it was about joining a community where she could truly make a difference. Paterson is one of the first recipients of the President’s Scholarship for 2025, a prestigious full-tuition award given to top-ranking students entering their first year. &Բ;
“߲ݴý aligns perfectly with my personal and academic goals, and the community support reassures me that I’ll have plenty of guidance as I move to a new province,” she said. &Բ;
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Paterson, originally from Paradise, Newfoundland, is currently enrolled in the Advanced Standing Program and taking Psychology 1013 with Dr. Gunn. The course offered her an early introduction to the supportive academic environment at ߲ݴý, giving her a glimpse of what ߲ݴýdent life could be like and preparing her for the transition to university. &Բ;
“߲ݴý has everything I am looking for, from small class sizes and strong academics to athletics and a strong community,” she said. &Բ;
“I chose ߲ݴý for its close-knit community that will allow me to build meaningful connections with other students, professors, and mentors.” &Բ;
At ߲ݴý, Paterson plans to pursue a degree in Social Work, with the goal of working in child protection services. &Բ;
“I feel I’m meant to go into a field where my compassion for others can make a positive difference. I believe St. Thomas will prepare me for everything I am going to see in my field of work,” she said. &Բ;
Commitment to Community &Բ;
Paterson’s leadership and community involvement have been defining aspects of her high school education. At Gander Collegiate, she served as a student council leader, taking on the role of president in her senior year. In athletics, she excelled in volleyball and competitive dance, while also showcasing her artistic talents in piano, vocal performances, and community musical theatre. &Բ;
Her volunteer work includes singing at senior homes, assisting with Special Olympics events, and working with children and individuals with special needs. She has also worked as a tutor, camp counselor, and tourism information officer, while staying active in her church as a Sunday school teacher, band member, and vocalist. &Բ;
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Paterson is eager to bring her passion for community to ߲ݴý.
“I plan to become involved and positively impact the ߲ݴý community,” she said. &Բ;
Scholarships at ߲ݴý &Բ;
Our major scholarships reward diverse student achievement, from academic excellence to community leadership. Submit ONE application to be considered for the majority of awards available to incoming ߲ݴýdents. The deadline to apply is March 1. &Բ;