University of Waterloo Welcomes Ten New Schulich Leaders

The University of Waterloo has announced the addition of ten exceptional students to its incoming first-year class as part of the esteemed Schulich Leader Scholarships program. These scholarships are awarded annually to 100 high-performing high school graduates across Canada, recognizing individuals who exhibit outstanding entrepreneurial potential in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Each Schulich Leader receives between $100,000 and $120,000, enabling them to pursue their academic aspirations without financial burden. Since the program’s inception in 2012, nearly 90 Schulich Leaders have chosen Waterloo as the starting point for their academic and professional careers.

“I am pleased to welcome this year’s cohort of Schulich Leader Scholars to the University of Waterloo,” stated Dr. Vivek Goel, president and vice-chancellor. “These students are among the brightest young minds in STEM, and I look forward to seeing the breakthroughs, dedication, and shared success they will contribute to our community and beyond.”

Introducing the New Schulich Leaders

The ten students joining Waterloo this September come from diverse backgrounds and possess impressive accomplishments in their respective fields. Here’s a closer look at each of these remarkable scholars:

Fiona Cai | Computer Science
Fiona Cai sees technology as a bridge between innovation and humanity. She has created several award-winning projects, including applications for seniors and a real-time sign language translator. As the chair of YRHacks, Canada’s largest high school hackathon, and founder of Codebuds, a nonprofit organization, she has connected thousands of students with STEM opportunities. Eager to delve into human-computer interaction and machine learning, Cai aims to develop technologies that empower others.

Kaibo Huang | Software Engineering
A sports enthusiast and competitive programmer, Kaibo Huang has been active in his high school’s Computer Science and Physics clubs. He contributed to Electrium Mobility, where he helped develop Electriumap, an app designed to locate nearby outlets and promote green energy use. Huang anticipates leveraging his high school experiences to further his education in Software Engineering, focusing on machine learning and data.

Michelle Jeon | Computer Science
Inspired by her visit to Silicon Valley, Michelle Jeon is keen to explore how technology can enhance human lives. She chose Waterloo for its strong Computer Science program, which she believes will allow her to examine the impact of technology on users deeply. Jeon is determined to create tools that foster social impact, one of which has already aided her deaf grandfather in communication.

Hilary Pang | Mechatronics Engineering
With aspirations of launching a prosthetics startup that utilizes AI technology, Hilary Pang chose Waterloo for its direct entry into the Mechatronics program. Combining her interests in mechanical systems and programming, she looks forward to gaining practical experience through Waterloo’s co-op program, which offers valuable industry exposure.

Matthew Petersen | Systems Design Engineering
Matthew Petersen founded Project WhyFi, an initiative aimed at educating youth on financial literacy, reaching over 18,000 students globally. As the president of his high school’s DECA chapter, he excelled at international competitions. At Waterloo, Petersen is excited to engage in project-based learning within the Systems Design Engineering program, hoping to make impactful contributions to technology.

Dorathy Shen | Physics and Astronomy
Passionate about music and sports, Dorathy Shen aspires to become an astrophysicist. She has designed an eco-friendly wind turbine concept and tutored students in various subjects. Shen aims to inspire others through her scientific endeavors and is eager to explore research opportunities in physics and astronomy at Waterloo.

Richard Si | Computer Science
Richard Si has spent over six years programming and contributing to international open-source projects. He appreciates the flexibility of Waterloo’s Computer Science program and is eager to delve deeper into his interests while balancing other hobbies like cycling and swimming. Si aims to continue leading in the Python developer ecosystem after graduation.

Azka Siddiqui | Computer Engineering
After participating in hackathons and leading community initiatives, Azka Siddiqui discovered her passion for merging hardware and software. During an internship at Nokia, she developed advanced data solutions. Siddiqui looks forward to immersing herself in Waterloo’s innovation ecosystem and hopes to create health-tech solutions that leverage computer vision.

Cherry Wang | Computer Engineering
Initially aspiring to pursue animation, Cherry Wang shifted her focus to computer engineering after discovering her passion for coding. She has organized workshops and hackathons to promote technology within her community. Wang hopes to contribute to technological advancements that address real-world challenges and eventually work with leading tech companies.

Sean Zhang | Computer Science
Throughout high school, Sean Zhang nurtured a passion for STEM, particularly chemistry and physics. After discovering programming, he recognized its potential to create meaningful change. Excited to join the Waterloo community, Zhang is looking forward to learning from peers and continuing his competitive swimming career as part of the Waterloo Warriors.

The Schulich Leader Scholarships program plays a critical role in supporting Canadian youth, providing them with the resources and opportunities to thrive in their academic and professional journeys. As the University of Waterloo welcomes this talented cohort, it anticipates the significant contributions these students will make in their respective fields.