Meet Trinity’s 2019 Pearson Scholars

In September, U of T will welcome the 2019 cohort of Pearson Scholars to campus. We are pleased to announce that three of them will be joining the Trinity College community. The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship was created to bring exceptional students from around the world to study at U of T. Named after Canada’s 14th prime minister, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and U of T graduate Lester Bowles Pearson, the scholarship recognizes exceptional academic achievement, creativity, leadership potential and community involvement. It covers tuition, books, incidental fees and residence costs for four years.

The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships at the University of Toronto provide an unparalleled opportunity for outstanding international students to study at one of the world’s best universities in one of the world’s most multicultural cities. The scholarship program is intended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and creativity and who are recognized as leaders within their school. A special emphasis is placed on the impact the student has had on the life of their school and community, and their future potential to contribute positively to the global community. See the list of all 2019 Pearson Scholars.

Aryan Dhar

Podar International School – India
Faculty of Arts & Science, Trinity College, Computer Science

“Hello! My name is Aryan Dhar, an IB student of Podar International School from Mumbai, India. Prior to Mumbai, I was born and brought up in the United Arab Emirates. Over the course of the last four years, I strove to achieve the best, academically and in terms of extracurriculars. Most notably, I have organized a TEDxYouth Conference, emerged 7th globally in the World Scholars Cup, and engaged in Natural Language Processing Research at Mumbai University, amongst other achievements. Academically, I was recognized as the candidate with the highest score globally in my Further Pure Mathematics and French IGCSEs, and also attained the highest score nationally, in my Economics and Physics IGCSEs. With regards to sports and the arts, I greatly enjoy horseback riding and have been recognized for my poetry, nationally and internationally. Being honored with the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship, I anticipate continuing to develop my intellectual curiosity and utilizing the skillset I acquire to make a positive difference in the world.”

Joshua Howe Hean Tan

Suzhou Singapore International School – Malaysian student studying in China
Faculty of Arts & Science, Trinity College, Rotman Commerce

“Traversing across the globe from my home country, Malaysia, to where the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship brings me, I am incredibly grateful for such a privilege.

“The prospect of studying Economics and Finance at University of Toronto excites me. As the world speeds on towards the fourth industrial revolution, and AI promises immense potential, jobs, however, may be displaced. Thus, I find economics, in its intersection of mathematics, social issues, and technology, fascinating — particularly where analyzing data can improve decision-making. To this end, it is my long-term aspiration to assume a role where I may bring about social and economic changes. For a start, though, I hope to gain experience in various industries, in a city as diverse as Toronto.

“My high school experience has given me glimpses of what university life can be. Winning national ACAMIS debate and public-speaking contests, soccer tournaments, and the MicroBiz business case competition were some of my highlights. Presiding as Student Council President, leading a string ensemble and publication team, as well as managing finances for a music charity have all taught me valuable lessons about leading and serving. From participating in robotics in middle school to debating world issues in MUN, what I have learned thus far makes me yearn for more — and I imagine the University of Toronto will be a great place to do that.”

Yee Tsui

Victoria Shanghai Academy – Hong Kong
Faculty of Arts & Science, Trinity College, Life Sciences

“Hello, my name is Yee, and I am from Hong Kong. From my experience of attaching to a local hospital the last two summers, and from what I have learned in various courses and programmes, I realize that medicine has limits in curing the incurable and preventing diseases at the societal level. This reinforces my aspiration to become a physician-scientist and my interest in medical research and public health, areas that I intend to pursue during my time here. I am very excited to begin the next chapter of my life at U of T, a world-class research university. I am sure that the opportunities U of T offers will equip me with the international-mindedness, skill set, and knowledge necessary for me to work towards improving others’ lives.

“Although I am more science-oriented, I am also an artist at heart. Painting allows me to express my feelings, and my interest in the human condition drives my compassion for others. I love spending my free time doing something active, like hiking, cycling, jogging and playing hockey. Having played ball hockey for five years, I can’t wait to try ice hockey and go to my first NHL game!”

Categories: Arts & Science; Awards & Honours; Student News; University of Toronto News