When I first arrived at McGill, I immediately felt at home. Everyone from professors, to staff, to fellow students made me feel welcome. I came to McGill through the Student Refugee Program (SRP), a sponsorship opportunity given to refugee high school graduates so that they can go to a Canadian university.
When I came to Montreal from Congo-Kinshasa and started my studies, it took time for me to adjust. My first semester was by far the most challenging. I found myself living alone and away from home for the first time, and the stress affected my studies. However, thanks to guidance from mentors and helpful resources such as CaPS and the Student Wellness Hub, I was able to get back on track and my grades improved.
After my SRP sponsorship ended, I also received bursaries from the Scholarships and Student Aid Office. These have helped me to pay for my education and living expenses. I’m now part of the SRP local committee, which welcomes new SRP scholars to McGill and Montreal.
After graduation, I would like to work with underrepresented communities. As an immigrant, and coming from a less privileged background, I would like to make a difference in these communities in the field I love the most. I would also like to be a faculty lecturer, because I love teaching and it is a way for me to share my knowledge.
None of this would be possible without your generous support. Thank you for giving me the opportunities to achieve my dreams, serve my community, and make my parents proud.
Kalenga Lubembele, Class of 2028
Ingram School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
McGill24 ambassador
March 11 is the 11th edition of McGill24, the University’s annual day of giving, when the global McGill community comes together to support students, researchers, student-athletes, and more. Visit mcgill24.ca to learn more about how you can make magic happen for McGill students.