Through her volunteer and leadership roles, this PhD student became a recipient of the George W. Vari Friendship award

Immigrating from the Philippines over 10 years ago, PhD electrical and computer engineering student Luzalen Marcos describes how she never predicted that she could pursue a career in engineering.

“In the Philippines, I didn’t think that I would be able to afford a university education, let alone pursue my graduate studies. Also, as a woman, this added another barrier for me in entering higher education,” said Marcos. “But, coming to Canada gave me the opportunity to go to university and allowed me to find ways to improve our society.”

Reflecting on her journey to Canada, Marcos says that it has inspired her to become a leader and make a difference within her communities. During her undergraduate studies, Marcos began volunteering for roles and groups within the university, including becoming the computer director for the TMU Engineering Student Society (RESS), a mentor for the Tri-mentoring program, and a volunteer for TMU SciXchange. “These organizations required me to act as a liaison between the organization and the students while increasing the diversity within the university community,” described Marcos.

Continuing her passion for volunteering into her graduate studies, Marcos became a FEAS graduate ambassador and supported a diverse team in planning events to create meaningful experiences and a community for FEAS graduate students. As vice president of policy and advocacy for TMU’s Engineers Without Borders, Marcos supported the university’s name change by educating the community on the importance of the matter. 

“My goal this year is to contribute to the truth and reconciliation with the Indigenous community by creating events that can raise awareness on Indigenous history,” said Marcos. “By shedding light on these topics, I hope to create a safe and inclusive space for the indigenous community and increase diversity within the University.”

Dr. Kristiina Ma, an associate professor and Marcos’s PhD supervisor, not only supported her academic studies, but also encouraged her to become the leader she is today. 

“Without her believing in my capabilities to pursue my graduate studies, I really could not have reached this far,” said Marcos. “Because of her, I found that diversity is important because it provides opportunities for people like me to have that chance to do research with people who have the same interests. It provides representation and offers me someone that I can look up to.”

With her volunteer and leadership roles within her communities, we are pleased to share that Marcos has been awarded the Honourable George W. Vari Friendship Award in the diversity category.

“George W. Vari had a similar story as me. He was an immigrant and he was able to make an impact throughout his life, and his legacy has continued,” said Marcos. “I reflected on our stories and thought that if he was able to make it here in Canada, and left a legacy of scholarships for  students like me, maybe I can make an impact here too.

As Marcos continues her studies, she describes how her goal is to continue her research work while building a community for students like her.“I am excited to find ways to contribute to society through my work, and I want to continue creating safe and inclusive spaces for my students.”