(Edmonton) Students across the University of Alberta campus took a few moments out of their studies today to say thank you.
The U of A Student Thank-A-Thons hosted throughout the year give students time to reflect on the generosity of individuals and companies that have set up scholarships and bursaries or funded equipment and facilities to help ensure student success.
"It has a big impact on me," said Tony Zheng, who has just returned to university to begin his PhD in geotechnical engineering.
Zheng was one of hundreds of students who wrote cards and notes of thanks to literally thousands of donors who support teaching, research, and student awards at the U of A.
He says returning to school after working as an engineer for the past seven years was a tough decision, but "the timing was right" and he knew that scholarships could make the transition easier. He applied for and was awarded the Thurber Engineering Graduate Scholarship in Engineering.
"I'm grateful for this," he said. "It will help me pay for research trips, to attend conferences and to pay for equipment I need."
Every year, new and continuing engineering students at the U of A have access to more than $1.5 million in student awards. Simply knowing that companies like Thurber are supporting students, Zheng said, "encouraged me, in the long term, to pursue the research I'm interested in."
For science students Gavin Schalk and Bethany Snaterse, scholarships mean they're able to commit fully to their studies.
Schalk says that without the Miller Western Leadership Entrance Scholarship, he'd have to hold down a part-time job while studying. "I like keeping the school year for school and the summer for working, and this helps me focus solely on school and volunteering as a volleyball and rugby coach," he said.
Snaterse said that receiving the Susan B. Eckert Memorial Scholarship in Science has special meaning for women in STEM studies.
"Women in STEM subjects are underrepresented and this scholarship was given to me automatically-it's like they've recognized the hard work I've already done in science. I'm in science because I'm passionate about it."
For information on ways you can support engineering students, visit the Faculty of Engineering Giving & Donations website.
For information on scholarships and bursaries available to undergraduate students visit our Scholarships, Awards & Funding site.