Introducing the New Schulich Leader Scholars

Monday, September 9, 2024

The Faculty of Engineering is excited to welcome its newest Schulich Leader Scholars, exceptional students who have received this prestigious scholarship for their achievements in STEM. Out of 350,000 potential candidates, 100 high school students across Canada have received this award. 10 are joining Waterloo this fall and 5 will be in the Faculty of Engineering. Students pursuing an engineering degree will receive $120,000, with the scholarship covering university expenses.

  • Salma El Gohary, pursuing Systems Design Engineering, first developed a mobile app at age 12 through Waterloo's Technovation Girls program. With experience in marketing, graphic design, and tutoring, she aims to launch a tech startup focused on wellness technologies and is eager to join UW Blueprint and Velocity’s Cornerstone program.
  • Elisa Gabriele, a student of Architectural Engineering, discovered her love for architecture at age nine. A mentor, tutor, and STEM activity organizer, she looks forward to combining her engineering and design skills. Her goal is to open her own architecture firm and inspire the next generation of engineers and architects.
  • Ronak Patel is studying Software Engineering. His passion for competitive programming and robotics led him to co-found a computing contest in Ontario. With interests in math, computing, and aviation, Patel plans to explore algorithm engineering and is enthusiastic about Waterloo’s co-op program and student design teams.
  • Evan Ralph, enrolled in Environmental Engineering, grew up in Newfoundland, where his love for the outdoors and a passion for physics sparked his interest in renewable energy. As the CEO of his school’s ROV team, Ralph aspires to work in hydroelectric or wind energy to benefit his home province.
  • Pari Vansjalia, another Software Engineering student, is passionate about the intersection of healthcare, robotics, and arts. She has researched decentralized autonomous organizations and co-founded EmpowHer to mentor young girls. Vansjalia also balances her interests with classical dance and looks forward to building impactful projects at Waterloo.

These scholars exemplify leadership, innovation, and a drive to make a difference in their fields and are set to make significant contributions to the Faculty of Engineering.

Go to Meet Waterloo’s 2024 Schulich Leaders for the full story.