Science student and Schulich leader. Curious about what’s happening around her, she identifies a problem and finds a solution. We Day 2014 speaker.
What qualities are common to Schulich leaders?
To sum it up, I would say proactivity, which encompasses curiosity and drive. Schulich leaders are curious about the things happening around them and seek to develop insight in order to identify a deficit. Then they will try and solve the problem they’ve identified, not for recognition or praise but simply because they see a need that they have the potential to meet.
How has the Schulich Leader Scholarship helped you fulfill your academic dreams?
This scholarship has allowed me to be part of the UBC community and it has opened doors. These doors connect me with other outstanding scholars and give me the credibility to establish and maintain community projects. Without the worry of finances for my undergraduate degree, I am able to focus on academia and further develop my interests in student leadership and philanthropy.
Vivian Tsang speaking at We Day, Vancouver, 2014.
Would you recommend UBC to others?
Of course! Whether you are a science junkie, a music buff, or a history enthusiast, there really is a place for everyone, if you are willing to look. Students who are passionate about their education inside and outside the classroom will no doubt be able to create an experience that they will enjoy.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
For me, UBC encompasses the best of everything a university has to offer. Although the scholarship played a key role in my decision to come here, I was most excited about UBC’s international mindset and diverse student opportunities. Aside from knowledge acquired through academia, it’s important for young people to gain exposure to different values, cultures, and beliefs. The kind of diversity and experiences available at UBC definitely makes for a well-rounded education.
What were your extracurricular activities before coming to UBC?
I was involved with student-led projects, student council, environment club, philanthropic initiatives, field hockey, track and field, advising for different pediatric research projects, and volunteering at places such as Covenant House and Vancouver General Hospital. This past summer, I taught English to disadvantaged village children in rural China.
Vivian Tsang teaching English in rural China.
Did you have any leadership experience in high school?
With the help of supportive peers and mentors, I spearheaded projects such as the Humanitarian Organization for Providing Empowerment, a program that serves vulnerable sectors of society within our school and our city, as well as a healthy living project titled Growing Green. I was also a part of student government in my high school and at the Vancouver District level. Although these outlets allowed me to develop my own leadership skills, my most fruitful experiences come from mentoring younger students and allowing them to see the leadership potential in themselves.
How has motivation propelled your early success?
Motivation is one of the core pillars of life that’s available for anyone. I’ve always relished the concept that success can be achieved through hard work, and hard work is fueled by motivation. I understood early on that everyone has a purpose to play, a position that holds meaning. Although this role will unquestionably evolve through time, it’s a waste not to do the best that you can in each of these positions.
What other awards have you won?
Schulich Leader Scholarship, UBC Alumni A. Miller Thomson Foundation Entrance Scholarship and Norman MacKenzie Alumni Entrance Scholarship, Western Canada Winner of the Violet Richardson Award, Finalist for the Loran Scholarship, Finalist for Canada’s Top Teen Philanthropist, Coast Capital Savings Citizenship Award, Trevor Linden Community Spirit Scholarship, BC Hydro Power Pioneers Community Service Award, Herbert H. Carnegie Future Aces Citizenship Award and Scholarship, The Steve Cowan Scholarship for Leadership in Action, and the BCSTA Student Award
