Setting students up for success through Scholars Academy

“The experience I have had through the Scholars Academy has taught me to push myself when it comes to embracing new experiences. I have been able to learn more about myself, create connections with peers which has helped me create initiatives, and learn how to better network and present myself,” says Arijit Lodha, a current student in the Scholars Academy.

Students admitted to Scholars Academy will attend core-programming events, including Fall and Winter Retreats, mentorship breakfasts and speaker series, designed to develop student’s professional and leadership capabilities. These events also serve as opportunities for students to meet likeminded peers in a uniquely diverse group with members from various disciplines.

Undergraduate students from all faculties can apply to Scholars Academy, with cohorts of up to 60 members admitted yearly. Students with a GPA of 3.6 and above will be invited in their second year to apply—however, any student that can demonstrate their suitability for the program is welcomed to apply. The Scholars Academy application requires a personal statement, curriculum vitae, two reference letters, and an unofficial transcript. Successful applicants will be shortlisted and invited to an interview before admission to the program.

UCalgary’s Student Success Centre offers academic development workshops, which can help students to prepare for their application with topics such as ‘developing personal statements’ and ‘how to get good reference letters.’ These workshops will help students prepare to apply to Scholars Academy as well as future programs or job opportunities.

Stephanie Lee, a Scholars Academy Program Assistant, says joining Scholars Academy is an opportunity for Scholars to meet likeminded students in a uniquely diverse group with members from all faculties. The Scholars Academy Mentorship Program pairs Scholars with successful community members to help student develop themselves personally and professionally and allows students to build a strong network both on- and off-campus.