A pair of Semiahmoo Secondary students have been selected to participate in the Shad Valley science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) program this summer.
Selina Shivji, in Grade 10, and Rika Sugimoto, in Grade 11, were chosen from more than 1,200 applicants across Canada. They will spend four weeks pushing their intellectual, creative and leadership skills to the next level, exposed to topics not regularly featured in the high school curriculum.
“Centred on STEM and innovation, Shad is where Canada’s top youth achievers are exposed to great ideas, inspired to look at things differently and challenged to reach for the highest levels of excellence,” Shad president Barry Bisson said in the statement.
“Shad sparks personal growth and healthy self-confidence in Canada’s next generation of STEM leaders and change-makers – a group that needs special attention and support beyond regular high school classroom settings.”
Shivji and Sugimoto are among only 620 youth selected to spend July immersed at one of Shad's 12 host universities, interacting with renowned university faculty and corporate leaders.
Acceptance to Shad is highly competitive. Those selected have top marks, a strong community focus and come from diverse backgrounds. A financial awards program is available to successful candidates who have demonstrated financial need.