Moving across the country to pursue higher education is always daunting. However, for Doris Zhang, a first-year science student from London, Ontario, coming to UBC has been transformative. Doris aspires to specialize in computer science—a passion she has had since high school.

As a recipient of UBC’s Centennial Scholars Entrance Award, she credits her journey to the generous support of donors.

“Without the award, I definitely wouldn’t have been able to move all the way over to Vancouver, considering my financial circumstances,” says Doris.

Her best friend initially influenced her decision to come to UBC, encouraging Doris to apply alongside her.

“Deep down, I knew I wanted to go to UBC,” says Doris. “But it wasn’t an option I considered because I knew it would be challenging financially. Then my friend said, ‘I’m applying, you should too.’”

So Doris did apply to UBC—but it wasn’t without trepidation, especially from her parents.

“When I first told my family I wanted to move to Vancouver, my mom was worried. She was listing off all the possible things that could go wrong. But at the end of the day, they knew that if I wanted to do something, I would anyway. And so they were supportive.”

That family support and financial assistance from the Centennial Scholars Entrance Award made her dream a reality.

The moment Doris received the award is still etched in her mind.

“I did a lot of singing growing up and was in choir throughout high school,” she says. “It was after choir practice on a random day, and I checked my phone and saw an email. I remember rereading the email three times before I was like, wait, did I get an award? I was excited and not expecting it.”

Doris’s gratitude towards the donors who made her education possible is profound.

“To donors, I want to say thank you so much because it makes a difference for students.” She adds, “Not only does it make a difference for my time here at UBC, but also every opportunity that follows my time here.”

Participating in extracurricular activities has enriched her university experience, allowing her to connect with peers while balancing her academic schedule. At UBC, Doris has immersed herself in the university’s dynamic community. Naturally, she joined the choir.

“UBC thrives in many aspects: their academics and the campus. I feel like they have a lot of resources for mental health and recreational activities. Just a good balance of work and fun,” she says.

Looking to the future, Doris is excited about the possibilities ahead. She hopes to explore various fields within computer science and find a career that fits with her goals to help create a thriving society.

“I feel like there’s a lot of ways that computer science can help the development of the world—but there’s still so much I have to learn.”

Thanks to the generous contributions from donors, students like Doris are empowered to pursue their academic goals and dreams. Doris adds, “The Centennial Scholars Entrance Award also serves as an indication that people believe in me and are supporting me through my journey, and I think that really helps with my motivation. I’ll always try to do my best.”