Launchpad for success
I chose to study computer science at Waterloo to pursue my passion for ideas at the intersection of technology and health care. I became interested in the field in high school, when I had the opportunity to make a prosthetic for a student I was tutoring. I’ve grown up hard of hearing, so I understand some of the ways that technology can really improve health outcomes.
One of the reasons my Waterloo experience has been so formative is the Rosemary and Ken Taylor Bursary Fund. This award has given me the freedom to immerse myself in my classes, extracurriculars and entrepreneurial endeavours rather than working a part-time job to make ends meet. Without the Taylors’ generosity, I wouldn’t be where I am now. I wouldn’t have made the same connections or had the same experiences. These are the influential years that can make or break a career, and I’m making it. I will always be grateful for the opportunity the Taylors have given me to chase my dreams.
VARDAN SAWHNEY, Student, Faculty of Mathematics
The Rosemary and Ken Taylor Bursary Fund gives students an opportunity to develop valuable skills and relationships at a critical point in their life.
Justice and gender equity in scientific and technological sectors can drive innovation. Equity stimulates creative and rigorous research and development which meets the needs of a wider cross section of Canadian and global citizens. So it’s essential that we get together to explore ways in which we can promote equity in these traditionally white, male-dominated industries.
- Carla Fehr, professor of Philosophy who is convening the conference.
As I look ahead to graduation in 2023, I aspire to change the world in an unconventional way. Many people believe that becoming a physician is the most effective way to make a difference in the health care field, but I believe that technology presents an opportunity to create impact on a larger scale, in a way that is more widely accessible. Eventually, I plan to move to the West Coast and take on the challenge of running my own company. In the meantime, I’m grateful to be surrounded by so many intelligent, dedicated people at Waterloo and will continue to take advantage of the many opportunities the University has to offer.
About the Rosemary and Ken Taylor Bursary Fund
Since 2008, the Rosemary and Ken Taylor Bursary Fund has propelled 84 students to success, allowing them to reach their full potential by providing the necessary funding to focus on their studies. Annual bursaries, which are valued at up to $3,000, are awarded to an undergraduate Mathematics or Science student who has maintained a 75% overall average and can demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to students majoring in Computer Science.
Rosemary and Ken Taylor created their fund out of the conviction that no student should have to sacrifice their dreams because of financial circumstances. To date, the Rosemary and Ken Taylor Bursary Fund has awarded more than $131,000 in bursaries.
Justice and gender equity in scientific and technological sectors can drive innovation. Equity stimulates creative and rigorous research and development which meets the needs of a wider cross section of Canadian and global citizens. So it’s essential that we get together to explore ways in which we can promote equity in these traditionally white, male-dominated industries.
- Carla Fehr, professor of Philosophy who is convening the conference.