Meet McGill's two newest Rhodes Scholars
Quebec Cityand Newfoundland students will head to Oxford next fall
When Vincent Larochelle read the selection criteria for the Rhodes Scholarships earlier this year, he knew they applied to the way he’s lived and wants to live his life.
Enrolled in an Honours BSc program in Mathematics with a Minor in Classics at McGill University , the 21-year-old from Quebec City is strongly motivated by truth, courage and devotion – values Rhodes Scholars should exemplify, in addition to demonstrating academic achievement and success in sports.
“I chose to study Math in university not because of the possible career options, but because mathematics allows you to develop an incredible intellectual sharpness,” Larochelle said.
A member of the McGill fencing team, Larochelle also devotes time to a local organization that supports people with reduced mobility.
Both Larochelle and Stephen Aylward, McGill’s two newest Rhodes Scholar-elects, embody the spirit intended by the prestigious international scholarship program, which offers two years of study at the University of Oxford .
Aylward, from Mount Pearl , Newfoundland , is an Honours BA student in Philosophy with a Minor in Political Science at McGill. An accomplished singer and musician, Aylward has also served on the executive of the McGill Debating Union and competed in tournaments. He is also a disciplined athlete and a committed volunteer who has been involved with Amnesty International for many years.
“I have a vision and passion for justice and service,” Aylward, also 21, said. “I’m dedicated to the principles of human rights and I want to continue to focus on that.”
Aylward plans to pursue a BA in Law at Oxford and eventually, a career in Immigration Law. As for Larochelle, after his planned doctoral studies in mathematics at Oxford , he plans possibly to return to McGill to study law. A candidate for the Green Party in the last federal election, he’s aiming for a career in politics.
“We are very proud of both of them,” said Morton J. Mendelson, Deputy Provost (Student Life and Learning). “The Rhodes criteria are extremely demanding –a lot more than just good marks. We congratulate Vincent and Stephen on their terrific accomplishments and look forward to the contributions they will make in the future as they pursue their careers and continue their efforts to make the world a better place. Bravo!”
The Rhodes Scholarships, established in 1902, seek individuals who have achieved high academic standing and who have demonstrated respect for their fellows, an unselfish spirit and the potential for leadership.
McGill is proud of these latest winners, who join 128 other McGillians who have won Rhodes Scholarships over the years, the largest number of Rhodes winners of any university in Canada .