SHAD is once again underway at Lakehead University, where dozens of students are learning how to create new products and business ideas.
Program Director Sultan Siddiqi says the students are both academically skilled, and “young leaders” who are involved in their home communities through volunteering or other activities.
He notes SHAD is a unique opportunity that gives them a crash course in business and a taste of what attending university is like.
“We immerse them in a very intense four-week-long program,” Siddiqi explains. “I would say the intensity of the program is comparable to what one would encounter in a professional program near the time of exams. That really helps them prepare and be successful at the university once they graduate from high school.”
Isobel Flindall from Barrie is going into grade 12 at East Northumberland Secondary. She says she’s enjoying working with students from across the country.
“I like to try and have a leadership role in the community and try and make a difference,” she explains. “I thought this would be really useful in developing my leadership skills to be able to help others, and to be able to pass on the lessons I learn to others in my community.”
She adds she is most interested in engineering, science, and math, and is considering a Bachelor of Mathematics or Bachelor of Science focusing on mathematics.
Ryan Yoshida from Halifax, Nova Scotia is going into grade 11 at Armbrae Academy, and says on top of the intense academic work they’re doing, he’s also getting a preview of what it would be like to attend Lakehead.
Fellow Halifax resident Melissa Walters is enjoying meeting and working with students from different backgrounds and with different strengths.
“I definitely was super intrigued because of the business aspect, but it’s also a really good opportunity for me to learn from others.”
Walters graduated grade 12 this year and says she’s interested in business programs when she attends university.
During the four-week course, students will also get familiar with Thunder Bay, including visiting the Regional Health Sciences Centre, camping at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, and meeting with local business leaders.
SHAD has been running at Lakehead since 1999.
