Niagara College recognized its brightest students from around the world this term at the Winter 2023 International Student Awards Ceremony on April 13.
Each term, NC celebrates the positive impact of international students who demonstrate academic excellence and contribute to the College community through its International Student Awards. In total, 30 awards and $28,000 in scholarships were given this winter thanks to the generous contributions of NC’s supporters.
Originally from the Philippines, Computer Programming student Luisito Jr Villaflor was among the 12 international students awarded for earning the highest Great Point Averages (GPA) in each School of Study.
“This award is a reminder of the importance of education when it comes to achieving our goals,” said Villaflor who earned a 95% GPA, the highest in the School of Media among international students. “It has given me a boost of confidence and a renewed sense of purpose in my studies. I have learned so much, not only in terms of knowledge but also regarding cultural exchange, personal growth, and a wider global perspective.”
President Sean Kennedy, Vice President, International, Sean Coote, and Senior Director, International Students, Gary Torraville attended the event held at the Stone Mill Ballroom in St. Catharines. Associate Director, International Student Services, Sue Guentheras also participated in the event as the master of ceremonies.
“Receiving this award is reaping the harvest of all the effort I have made to get to Canada,” said Greenhouse Technician (Co-op) student, Daniela Bernal Rodriguez.
Originally from Colombia, Bernal Rodriguez has a current GPA of 95.70%, the highest in the School of Environmental and Horticultural.
“Now I recognize how brave I was in saying goodbye to my family and arriving at a new place without knowing anybody and having to find new friends, get a new job, adapt to a new routine,” said Bernal Rodriguez
Twelve other students with outstanding academic performances were awarded by Guard.me, the provider of international student insurance coverage, with the Keith Segal – Guard.Me scholarship. One of them was Recreation Therapy – Fast Track student, Fatemeh Sadat Mousavi, who maintains a GPA of 97.83%.
“International students face many challenges and winning this scholarship validates all the hard work I have put into my academic pursuits,” said Mousavi.
Originally from Iran, Mousavi also volunteers as a guard.me Campus Ambassador and works as a Student Assistant at NC.
“I am deeply grateful for this honor and will use it to achieve my academic and career goals,” said Mousavi.
Two CIBC scholarships were awarded to students with good character, consideration for others, perseverance, and a desire to succeed.
“Receiving this scholarship will not only help me financially but will also inspire me to continue pursuing my passions and dreams,” said one of the recipients, Teslim Olamide Ogunlola.
Originally from Nigeria, Olamide Ogunlola is taking the Computer Program & Analysis (Co-op) Program at NC.
“It is a powerful motivation for me to work harder, learn more, and give back to the community. I am deeply grateful for having my potential recognized,” said Olamide Ogunlola.
During the evening, NC also awarded two Dr. Mary Kilmer Tchalekian Scholarships for students with excellent academic performance who aim to make a difference upon returning to their countries; the Niagara College Student Administrative Council (NCSAC) International Student Award, given to a student with academic excellence who takes advantage of extra-curricular and volunteer opportunities SAC offers to enrich life experiences and fulfill dreams; and the Community Spirit Award in Memory of Isabel Hernandez Maltos, given to an international student in any NC English as a Second Language (ESL) or Post-Secondary program who exemplifies leadership and volunteering qualities at Niagara College or in the community.
