Donors inspire aspiring business and law leader

“It has always been my dream to become the CEO of my own company one day,” Bae said. “I want to see more women, people of colour, and visible minorities in leadership roles.”

Bae’s ambitions drew her to study in the Edwards School of Business at the University of Saskatchewan (USask). While specializing in operations management, she is also on the path to obtaining a law degree through the College of Law’s Combined Bachelor of Commerce/Juris Doctor program.

“To become a great leader, I need to understand people, policies, trends and industries; I believe pursuing higher education is allowing me to get closer to that goal,” she said. “USask is also close to my heart as my oldest sister graduated from the College of Nursing.”

Bae was accepted into the combined degree program and began her new academic journey in the fall. Diligent in her studies, she said she couldn’t have excelled as a student without the support of her scholarship.

Thanks to the campus community—alumni, friends, staff and faculty—who donated to the Campaign for Students that funded her scholarship, Bae is able to devote time to participate in extracurricular activities, which is helping her gain additional skillsets for her future career.

Bae has taken on many leadership roles in various organizations, such as the president of AIESEC in Saskatoon, vice-president of the Pre-Law Student Society, marketing director for the World Mining Competition, and now photographer for Young Women in Business. She volunteered at the University of Saskatchewan Students’ Union Women’s Centre and Food Centre, and sang with USask’s Greystone Singers in her first year of university.

To further her potential as a future CEO, Bae is enrolled in Certification in Common Law in French at the University of Ottawa, and is a part of the Corporate Law Club at USask. She is also busy advancing her photography skills and kick-starting an online business venture in her spare time.

“Receiving a scholarship has allowed me to become a well-rounded student,” she said. “It is because of donors that I’m able to contribute my time to make a difference in the community and my future—I thank them for their support.”

The Campaign for Students raises money to help students with scholarships and bursaries. It also provides additional financial assistance for distance learning tools, and medical and mental health support. Last year, $1.17 million was raised through the campaign to ease financial concerns of students while working toward their degrees.

“In a time where classes are mainly online, it’s crucial for students to have access to resources such as a reliable internet connection. If a student couldn’t log-in to a learning platform, they wouldn’t be able to finish their courses, forcing them to drop out or delay their studies,” Bae said.

Donor support proves to help students like Bae pursue their dreams and serves as an inspiration for their future.

“When someone else supports your education and interests, you feel motivated and inspired,” she said.

Bae said she hopes to give back in the future so others can receive the same help she has received.

“I hope to show the same generosity that others have done for me.”