Skip to main content

Scholar Stories

Reflections from Loran Scholars

Rafael Escalante Franco (’22)

“As a future legal expert with visions of challenging and reassessing inequitable legal structures, my research experience has prepared me to diligently understand the complexity of issues embedded within certain communities. Loran inspires me to let empathy and determination guide my future undertakings. Through the support of my fellow scholars, mentor, and Loran community members, I know that I have all the tools I need to make my future goals reality.”

Sofie Fournier (’22)

“Loran inspires me to be the change I want to see and to take initiative, even in new and perhaps uncomfortable environments. I was dissatisfied with the systems in place and pursued an active role in student advocacy during my first year of undegrad, including reforming the university’s sexual violence services and resources for students.“

Kyran Alikamik (’21)

“Becoming a Loran Scholar has shown me the possibilities of meaningful leadership in effectuating lasting change, and helped bring to light what personally imbues my everyday life with a sense of purpose. I’m passionate about showing other Inuit, among other Indigenous people, the value of breaking cycles and taking charge of one’s educational path, and I seek to elevate my community by being a positive role model.“

Emma Harris (’21)

“Joining the Loran community has given me plenty of reasons to be optimistic about the future of our world. I have been inspired to give back to my community through Sprouts, a volunteer-run food cooperative with multiple programs that combat food insecurity on campus. Food security has been a passion of mine for nearly a decade, and it is because of Loran, and their commitment to giving back to the community, that I am able to continue this work in British Columbia. The people I have met through my work with Sprouts Cafe and Community Fridge Initiatives make me strive for a world in which food security is something attainable for all. I’m passionate about creating and living in communities that foster care, and I actively seek to elevate my community by being unapologetically myself.“

Kayleigh Bowes (’21)

“The Loran community has enabled me to see things through new perspectives and challenge my limits. I’m passionate about food insecurity, youth mental health, and social entrepreneurship, so I actively serve my community, planning and running programming, offering skill-building workshops, and working one-on-one with youth to inspire them to reach their full potential. I am driven to build up those around me and provide local youth with the tools and resources they need to succeed in whatever areas they are passionate about, as well as letting them know that it’s okay to ask for help when needed.“

Kevin Wang (’21)

“Building a welcoming and supportive community has always been a key passion of mine because I believe that strong communities have the power to do great good in the world. As an orientation executive, I was able to help first-years find their place in a new campus community and create memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. The opportunities and network being a Loran Scholar provide have pushed me to take on meaningful responsibilities, dream bigger, and work harder to make a positive difference in this world.”

Learn how other current Loran Scholars are making
a difference in their communities