Congratulations to the 2022-2023 Arts and Science Scholars!

The atmosphere was festive on October 25th, in Loyola campus’ Oscar Peterson Hall, as Dean Pascale Sicotte addressed a very proud audience. “You are agents of change,” said Dean Sicotte. “Your creativity, your curiosity, individually and collectively will be instrumental in meeting the challenges of tomorrow.”

Every year, the Scholars Evening ceremony honours students who have the very best grades in their departments. These students make up a small and exceptional group among the 17,000 undergraduates in the Faculty of Arts and Science.

“We take pride in these students’ achievements, in attracting such talented and dedicated students who embody success,” explains Dean Sicotte. “Our Scholars are not mere bystanders; they are active learners. We rely on their continued contributions to further advance their fields of study in both purpose and means.”

“This ceremony marks the pinnacle of a student's journey each year,” explains Dr. Philippe Caignon, professor and Associate Dean, Student Academic Services for the Faculty of Arts and Science. “It's an extraordinary recognition, underscoring the students’ resilience in their academic pursuits, as they navigate through various personal and educational challenges. This event is truly designed to highlight the significance of their dedication and the quality of their efforts, which are consistently displayed year after year.”

We had the opportunity to connect with two honorees to delve deeper into their experiences.

Balancing Life and Unleashing Inner Success

Sarah Barnier grew up in St. Martin in the Caribbean and came to Montreal at the age of 18. She earned a bachelor's degree in pharmacology and worked in the clinical research industry for a few years. She decided to return to her studies in pursuit of a more human-centered aspect and began her psychology studies at Concordia last year.

“I chose Concordia because it gives its students the opportunity to explore various options with a wealth of courses to choose from,” explains Sarah. “Flexibility is part of the culture here: the University encourages independence, which allows me to explore and follow my interests wherever they lead.”

What are the determinants of Sarah’s success?

“When I embarked on this journey, I brought with me a toolbox filled with inner determination. The human aspect, and the support of my loved ones have been crucial; but success first has to come from within. It's a lesson I've learned while studying psychology!”

When asked Sarah what her advice for undergraduate students would be, she said: “It is essential to realize how balance in our lives, including making time for people and activities outside of studying, enhances the quality of our education. Being a good student is not about quantity, it's about quality. Strive for a balanced life. Success is never a straight line.”

Perseverance and Active Engagement

Born in Toronto, Nimi Mountain first came to Montreal to study at Concordia a decade ago, right after high school. Back then, he studied Biology, with a Minor in Environmental Geography. “I wasn’t doing so well after the first year,” Nimi explains. “I was discouraged and decided to take some time off. Five years later, I came back to study what I was truly passionate about: Geography and the Human Environment. I was also able to find two minors I really liked in First Peoples Studies and Geospatial Technologies.”

This second time around, Nimi got more involved in his community and in school groups, including WUSC and the Geography Undergrad Student Society. “One key to my success has been active engagement, maximizing opportunities for networking, and broadening my knowledge beyond my concentration,” says Nimi. “Active participation in classes, building friendships, and achieving a work-life balance have also been instrumental in my journey. True success is found in maintaining a well-rounded equilibrium.”

What is up next for Nimi?

“I’m planning on doing graduate studies in environmental impact assessment,” says Nimi. “I want to keep studying. In these challenging times, it's important to remember that adversity can fuel our growth. School has equipped me with confidence to navigate life's hurdles, teaching me to stay present and focus on one thing at a time. Every challenge is an opportunity for personal evolution.”

Discover the full list of Scholars for 2022-2023