The University of Waterloo is seeking five graduate valedictorians for the fall (October) 2024 convocation ceremonies.
If you’re a graduate student completing your degree in 2024, this is a fantastic opportunity to represent your faculty and share your experiences with your peers, faculty, and guests during the ceremony.
Eligibility criteria
To be considered, candidates must have a strong academic background, demonstrated leadership skills, and effective communication abilities. Involvement in university and community activities, as well as professional experiences, will be valued in the selection process. Candidates must be able to attend the fall 2024 in-person convocation ceremony:
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Friday, October 25
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Morning: Faculty of Health & Environment
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Afternoon: Faculty of Math
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Evening: Faculty of Science
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Saturday, October 26
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Morning: Faculty of Arts
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Afternoon: Faculty of Engineering
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The Faculties of Environment and Health will have graduate valedictorians in alternating years. In 2024, the graduate valedictorian will be from the Faculty of Environment. As such, we will not be accepting applications for graduate valedictorians from the Faculty of Health for fall 2024 convocation.
Application process
Interested candidates must complete an application form, submit a CV, provide an unofficial transcript, and receive endorsement from three members of the university community. These members can be fellow students, staff, faculty, or alumni.
Selection criteria and process
The selection process involves an assessment of academic excellence (30%) and personal characteristics (70%). Academic achievements, including past results, scholarships, and program rigor, are considered alongside interpersonal skills, leadership experience, and community engagement. During the selection process, faculties will review submissions and shortlist their top three for institutional review; these shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview and to present their proposed five-minute speech to an institutional selection committee.
The deadline to apply for valedictorian is May 31, 2024.
