A new student at Waterloo Engineering is starting his studies backed by a national scholarship for the Deaf and hard of hearing.
Alexander Loo, of Pickering, is one of 23 winners nationwide of up to $3,000 a year for four years provided by Canadian Hearing Services (CHS).
“This funding will allow me to focus on my studies and long-term goal of increasing Deaf and hard of hearing representation in the post-secondary environment,” said Loo, who hopes to help other incoming students adjust after finding his own footing in the mechanical engineering program.
“My unique experiences, as a hard of hearing student, will allow me to assist other students facing similar challenges in order to support a smooth transition to university life for them.”
Now in their fifth year, the scholarships are meant to break down financial barriers and help with extra costs associated with hearing accommodation and higher learning.
“Each scholarship winner has demonstrated incredible resilience and drive to achieve their academic goals in order to build a successful career,” Julia N. Dumanian, the president and CEO of CHS, said in a media release.