For as long as I can remember, I’ve always loved animals. I can’t imagine myself doing anything that is not related to helping and spending time with them. Animals make the world a better place, and I want to make the world a better place for them. In my future career, I want to advocate for the conservation and protection of species that are negatively affected by humans.
I wanted to come to McGill because it has one of the best wildlife biology programs in the country. But cost was a major factor in my decision. Receiving the Canada Award decreased my financial burden and made it possible for me to choose McGill.
I’m now in my foundation year of Environmental Biology. After graduation, I plan to apply to veterinary school and ultimately work in wildlife conservation.
My favourite part of being a McGill student is being pushed to become a better version of myself. I’m being challenged academically, and I’m meeting so many new people from diverse cultures. It feels as if doors around the world are opening to me.
Thank you for supporting the Canada Award and helping me achieve my dream of studying at McGill.
Manuela Gonzalez Barrantes
First-year student, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Canada Award recipient
New Brunswick