A.R. MacNeill secondary grad Amy Guo had “happy tears” on learning she received a $40,000 Beedie scholarship recently.
Now other youth are being invited to apply for the scholarship, which is given out annually through the Beedie Luminaries Foundation.
For Guo, who was one of 112 Grade 12 grads last year across the province to get the scholarship, it lifted a weight off her shoulders.
“I still remember getting the phone call from Beedie Luminaries - I was so shocked and ecstatic...I still remember instantly running to the living room full of excitement to tell my parents the good news,” said Guo.
“Happy tears were involved,” she added.
Guo is currently a first-year commerce student at the UBC Sauder School of Business.
She said the scholarship opened up opportunities for her, allowing her to make a much smoother transition from high school to living on campus.
“With this financial lift, instead of working many hours a week at a part-time job, I am able to focus on my academics and be involved with school clubs that align with my interests and values.”
Since 2018, philanthropist and developer Ryan Beedie has been offering $50 million through his foundation to help youth to achieve academic success and contribute to the community despite facing adversity in life.
When faced with challenges, speaking up isn’t easy, noted Guo, but she encourages her peers to reach out for help.
“It takes a lot of courage to speak out about your challenges, but don’t be afraid, and you’re most definitely not alone. There are so many people who are willing to listen to your story. As well, there are numerous opportunities to receive financial help,” said Guo.
The application period for Beedie scholarships is now open and Grade 12 students in B.C. who face financial barriers are encouraged to apply. For more information, visit https://beedieluminaries.ca/. Applications close on Jan. 13, 2022.
