Meet the 2021 Longo Faculty of Business Special Awards Winners
Longo Faculty of Business offers special awards in addition to the Humber awards and scholarships. Each award requires full-time students to meet the minimum criteria of a GPA above 80% cumulative and submit an essay describing their academic achievements.
Read more to learn about our 2021 Special Award student winners below.
Longo Faculty of Business Dean’s Award Winners
This award goes to a full-time Longo Faculty of Business Student who is returning to complete their program of study and who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to their academic studies, the Longo Faculty of Business and the community.
Devon Hunter
1. How did you feel when you discovered that you were the recipient of the award?
I was hopeful - but to be honest, I didn't think I would get it and was very happy to have received it. The funds were a welcomed relief but having my effort recognized through this award made me feel noticed and proud. For me, this award was the culmination of a lot of hard work.
2. How have/will these funds make an impact on you, your life and your family life?
As an international student, many financing opportunities are not available to us even though the cost is often twice as much when compared to a domestic student. I have been self-financing this journey and so scholarships and bursaries are like welcomed water as you trek through the desert.
3. What do you plan to do with the money?
It has gone straight on to my tuition. In essence, getting this scholarship helped ensure that I complete the program on time with fewer financial scars.
Tina Nguyen
1. How did you feel when you discovered that you were the recipient of the award?
It is such a great honour to be the recipient of the Longo Faculty of Business Dean’s Award. I could not believe my eyes when I received the email from Humber Student Awards. I want to share my happiness and express gratitude towards my professors in the Global Business Management and Human Resources Management postgraduate programs, Humber College faculty and staff, as well as my peers in class and the Humber volunteer communities. I am grateful for all the warm welcome and support I have received since coming to Canada in order to continue my higher education.
2. How have/will these funds make an impact on you, your life and your family life?
Thanks to the support of many generous donors at Humber College, this scholarship has helped to relieve my financial burden so that I can focus more on my academic work and search for a co-op placement in my final semester. The scholarship has also strengthened my belief that hard work pays off and good deeds can attract positive outcomes. I hope that I can pay it forward and make a positive contribution towards the community in the near future, especially in the field of education – my passion and long-term orientation.
3. What do you plan to do with the money?
I have made a budget plan for the award money for different purposes besides living expenses. I intend to invest in my professional and personal development through short-term virtual training courses and professional certificates. A portion of the award money has also been donated to charity organizations in Canada and back home.
Keran Basiram
1. How did you feel when you discovered that you were the recipient of the award?
I was delighted to learn that I had been selected as the recipient of this prestigious award. It was a bittersweet moment because I also understand the negative effects that this global pandemic has had on Canada’s rising unemployment rate. Nevertheless, I will leverage the opportunity to the best of my abilities and hopefully pay it forward in the future.
2. How have/will these funds make an impact on you, your life and your family life?
These funds will reduce the number of hours I work and help me focus on my studies. Personal obligations caused me to question the continuation of my studies at Humber. Consequently, winning this scholarship reduced some of my financial worries.
3. What do you plan to do with the money?
The award money was used to pay my winter 2021 tuition fees.
Amrit Gill
1. How did you feel when you discovered that you were the recipient of the award?
I was overcome by a spectrum of emotions! It was a mix of surprise, joy, and excitement and was a humbling moment for me. I felt honoured and fortunate to be the recipient of this prestigious award. All the hard work that I put in was recognized and rewarded. The award has also motivated me to work with a lot more focus and intent. I will surely put in more effort in the upcoming semesters.
2. How have/will these funds make an impact on you, your life and your family life?
From a financial standpoint, 2020 was extremely challenging for me. I was unemployed for the better part of the year and the financial stability of my parents was also affected. These funds will positively fill my financial void created by the pandemic. Financial stress could have been a negative factor for my academic focus and these funds will help me shift my focus back to the academic and professional aspirations I have.
3. What do you plan to do with the money?
I plan to invest the award money towards my education to help prevent financial roadblocks. My decision is further fueled by the idea that education can help me make a difference in the world.
Frank Franklin Achievement Award Winners
Awarded annually to a full-time International Student from the Longo Faculty of Business for outstanding commitment to their academic studies, extracurricular activities and who has shown perseverance in overcoming a barrier or challenge. Frank Franklin, former Director of International Programs who retired in 2005, has supported the achievements of many international Business students.
Kristel Jumpay
1. How did you feel when you discovered that you were the recipient of the award?
I was in complete awe! I remember I was having dinner with my roommate when I found out that $4,000 was credited to my student account. At first, I was under the impression it could be a mistake as I never expected to be chosen - not until I received the official acknowledgement from Humber Student Awards. I immediately called my mother back home to share the great news. I am beyond grateful and feel so blessed to be awarded by the Longo Faculty of Business.
2. How have/will these funds make an impact on you, your life and your family life?
The money is a BIG help. My family is no exception to everyone who is facing financial difficulty amidst this pandemic. The funds I received not only ease the burden for my school finances but also made me realize the importance of having great support from my family. My parents did their very best to come up with funds for my tuition fees, however, we were still short. I vividly remember them reassuring me not to worry about it - knowing they would find a way, and then to our surprise, this scholarship happened!
3. What do you plan to do with the money?
Half of the funds covered my tuition fee balance plus school expenses for the Winter semester. The other half, I had shared already with my parents. I owe everything to my mom and dad, I am here in Canada because of them. They supported my dreams to earn an international education and it just feels right to somehow give back for all the sacrifices they've made. Our family business in the Philippines has been significantly affected by COVID-19 and these funds will go a long way to help.
Chloe Tien
1. How did you feel when you discovered that you were the recipient of the award?
At first, I was surprised that maybe I was dreaming, but I wasn't - the dream had become a reality. I felt pleased when I read the email and recognize my name. I was so happy that I just wanted to scream and tell my family right away even though I knew that everyone was still sleeping at that time in Vietnam. I got the Frank Franklin Achievement Award - I did it, and I have overcome myself in the past!
2. How have/will these funds make an impact on you, your life and your family life?
COVID-19 has affected the country's economy, job market, and many household finances. My family is also one of those affected and these funds will help me cover two-thirds of next terms tuition fee and financial support. Moreover, this award has also motivated me to study more in order to become a Beauty Advisor and contribute to the future of the cosmetics industry in Canada and Vietnam.
Additionally, it gives me confidence in myself and the inspiration to help others who have experienced similar situations while studying abroad. In the end, it created a positive meaning for my life - to believe in myself and to not let negativity affect my journey. I am ready to face any challenges! With strong work and determination, anyone can achieve their goals.
3. What do you plan to do with the money?
I will use it to pay part of the tuition next term. My parents are very proud of me. Thank you, Humber, for giving me this opportunity.
Chantay Thorpe
1. How did you feel when you discovered that you were the recipient of the award?
I was sincerely honoured to have been selected to receive the Frank Franklin Achievement Award. There was definitely a brief moment of disbelief followed by immense gratitude. I was just so happy to have my hard work recognized.
2. How have/will these funds make an impact on you, your life and your family life?
This investment in my studies was a breath of relief for myself and my family. It gave us one less thing to worry about during a time where there are a million and one things to be worried about. The first person I called when I found out I had received the award was my mom since she had done so much to make it possible for me to study in Canada. She was so proud and it made me happy to show her what I've been doing with the investment she made in me.
3. What do you plan to do with the money?
I have already put the award money towards paying off my tuition for this semester. This will contribute greatly towards enabling me to be more selective with how I spend my free time and fully maximize my college experience at Humber. While completing the remainder of my studies in the International Business program, I look forward to engaging in meaningful opportunities on-campus and in my community that align with my goals.
International Student Excellence Award Winners
This award is presented to a full-time International Student from the Longo Faculty of Business who has achieved exceptionally high grades, who has demonstrated a strong commitment to his/her studies, has demonstrated his/her commitment to Humber’s campus life through active participation in activities such as athletics, resident, peer mentoring, cultural activities, cultural activities, event planning etc.
Mitali Raheja
1. How did you feel when you discovered that you were the recipient of the award?
First and foremost, I feel honoured for being considered a worthy candidate for this prestigious award. This recognition has only been possible with the constant support of my incredibly experienced professors at Humber. It was my professors who kept me going and encouraged me to believe in myself. The moment I opened my Humber account and realized I have been awarded I was head over heels. I couldn't be happier and more proud of myself. Since childhood, it was my strong dedication and commitment to my studies that allowed me to pursue my dream program at Humber and to be able to maintain it with such honourable recognition feels great just like a cherry on the top!
2. How have/will these funds make an impact on you, your life and your family life?
As an international student, my journey has been difficult since moving to Canada. Being a 19-year-old entirely supporting myself financially and mentally has helped me find myself in the past year. These funds have left me feeling more confident and powerful than ever before. The award has encouraged me to believe in myself and taught me there's nothing that is impossible if you are persistent. One thing which I would like to say for those reading this is to never doubt your capabilities. We all are capable of more than we think. We are all worthy and deserving to be valued and recognized.
3. What do you plan to do with the money?
I was supposed to pay for my last year's tuition deposit which was valued at $7000 and receiving this award has helped me reduce a major portion of it which I am very happy about.
I cannot put in words how fortunate I feel to be able to receive this award. I would like to thank the entire Longo Faculty of Business, my professors and my family for being a part of this journey. It wouldn't have been possible without you all. Thank you so much! With a full heart, I promise to continue doing good and making all of you proud.
Aleksandra Golobokova
1. How did you feel when you discovered that you were the recipient of the award?
I felt extremely happy at that moment, and I couldn’t believe that I had won the award after so many attempts to apply for other scholarships/awards.
2. How have/will these funds make an impact on you, your life and your family life?
These funds helped me reduce tuition fees in such uncertain times and made a huge financial impact. It also helped enhance my self-esteem and motivated me to even harder. Anything is possible if you keep trying.
3. What do you plan to do with the money?
I honestly haven’t decided on it with family yet. For now, I have just saved it for the future.
Kim Thanh Thach
1. How did you feel when you discovered that you were the recipient of the award?
I was totally surprised and happy when I learnt that I'd received the International Student Excellence Award! I remember jumping up and down, screaming and singing when I checked my account. I must have told everyone on my friend list about this as it is a great honour to receive such a reward.
2. How have/will these funds make an impact on you, your life and your family life?
These funds mean a lot to me. It has substantially paid off a large amount of my tuition and the money I have saved is being used for my groceries and rent.
3. What do you plan to do with the money?
COVID-19 hit me hard - I lost my job and I am now living on my savings. However, this award has made my life a bit easier and helped me stay positive in these lowly times which I am grateful for. Thank you to the Longo Faculty of Business for recognizing my hard work. I will try my best to earn it again next time!