Loran alumnus Anthony Létourneau (‘21) was recently announced as one of 30 new McCall MacBain Scholars. Open to students worldwide selected for their purpose and integrity, the McCall MacBain Scholarship funds students’ pursuit of a professional degree or Master’s at McGill University in Montrèal, QC. Anthony is the second Loran Scholar to go on to receive this distinction.
Growing up, Anthony was passionate about science and innovation, often watching documentaries and tinkering with mechanisms and electronics in his spare time. But everything changed when he participated in his first robotics competition. “It helped me realize that it was possible to translate my ideas into something tangible,” he says.
“As my studies progressed, I realized that the concepts I was learning were essential to the development of new technologies that will help us combat the greatest challenge my generation will face: climate change.” This fall, Anthony will pursue a Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, focusing on creating artificial materials designed to exhibit predetermined behaviors when exposed to certain conditions.
He credits the Loran community and its four-year leadership enrichment program with not only providing support for his academic goals but helping him become more curious and courageous as well. The opportunity to study outside of his home province, both in Canada and abroad, for summer work experiences helped him grow personally and academically.
“Loran encouraged me to think outside the box, explore the unknown, and try new things. It allowed me to consider areas I wouldn’t have thought about otherwise, including my future field of study. The enriching exchanges I had with my mentor and peers helped refine my thinking, broaden my perspectives, and strengthen my self-confidence. The Loran community has been synonymous with support, and that’s what allowed me to move forward and feel confident about starting this new chapter.”
When it comes to joining the McGill and McCall MacBain Scholars communities, Anthony says he’s excited about many things, but he most looks forward to the opportunity to connect and work with fellow scholars from different countries and backgrounds who all share one thing in common: the desire to build a better world.