Vardan SawhneyCurrently, I’m pursuing health care research opportunities in multiple university settings. I’ve participated in a variety of student clubs and teams, and I’m also co-founding a startup with my classmates. We’re developing a unique tool to guide people through the process of career-building in a more personalized way than professional networking sites. I’m playing a role in growing several other startups as well.

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.


topquote
The Rosemary and Ken Taylor Bursary Fund gives students an opportunity to develop valuable skills and relationships at a critical point in their life.

VARDAN SAWHNEY, Student, Faculty of Mathematics


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.