An Abbotsford resident and medical student will have all four years of his education costs paid for at the University of B.C. after recently winning the inaugural Doctors of BC Presidential Scholars Award.
Ajay Grewal earned a bachelor of science in biology at UBC and is now a first-year medical student.
Organizers say he stood out from other applicants for the award because of his dedication to volunteering.
In high school, Grewal divided his volunteer time between Abbotsford Regional Hospital, the Cancer Society, and the Tabor Home Society.
While a UBC undergrad, Grewal volunteered at UBC Hospital with the ambulation program, assisted in clinical research with UBC’s department of psychiatry, and volunteered as a research lab technician in the department of cellular and physiological sciences.
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Grewal has also volunteered 700 hours as a crisis and suicide line responder with the Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention Centre of B.C., receiving recognition from the organization for his dedication and demonstrated excellence of service.
Grewal is also involved in volunteer activities with the Sikh community, the arts, and an array of sports teams.
Doctors of BC president Dr. Kathleen Ross presented him with his award on Oct. 4 on campus at UBC.
The award covers tuition, text books and student fees for one student for every year of the entirety of their medical education.
Recipients are selected based on academic and leadership achievements in the arts, community, or school – with a preference given to students whose community involvement and volunteerism emphasizes health care.
In November of last year, Doctors of BC pledged $1.75 million to establish the award, with matching funds as part of UBC’s Blue and Gold Campaign for Students.
By year four, the award will be funding four medical students every year.
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