Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú graduate Lucero Fuentes Ramos will travel to Montreal, Canada as a global finalist for the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill University.
The result of a landmark C$200-million gift (PEN 525.9 M) in 2019, McCall MacBain Scholarships are Canada’s largest leadership-based scholarships for master’s and professional studies.
Each scholarship covers tuition and fees for an eligible degree, a living stipend of $2,300 per month during academic terms, summer funding options, mentorship, coaching, a leadership curriculum, access to the McCall MacBain House, and a relocation grant.
Lucero Fuentes Ramos is among 36 international finalists chosen from thousands of candidates around the world. The selection process includes a university nomination and emphasizes holistic criteria such as character, community engagement, leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, academic strength, and intellectual curiosity.
Lucero is a recent Electronic Engineering graduate currently working as a teaching assistant at the university. She volunteers as the vice-director of the Pathfinders Club, which runs activity programs for youth, and as a Sabbath School teacher. In addition, Lucero organized workshops for two electronics student associations, served as an engineering student ambassador, and co-created a smart device that relays traffic light information for visually impaired individuals.
“It feels like a dream come true. A few years ago, I saw this opportunity and I told myself that if it were meant for me, the right time would come, and that time is today,” said Lucero. “Being a finalist is one more step towards continuing to achieve my dreams, and it’s a powerful reminder that perseverance pays off.”
“My university experience shaped me in countless ways,” she added. “Working on team projects helped me develop collaboration skills, while my professors’ encouragement and the knowledge shared in their classes guided me along this path. The opportunities and resources provided by my university allowed me to turn my ideas into reality. Without these experiences, I wouldn’t be the person I am today, ready to embrace this incredible opportunity.”
“We need more leaders who act with integrity, kindness, curiosity, and courage. We congratulate these students who have already distinguished themselves as the top candidates nationally and globally, and we thank the universities that nominated them for this opportunity.”
Dr. Marcy McCall MacBain Chair of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGillDuring her visit to Canada, Lucero will participate in interviews with leaders from academia, business, government, and the social sector. A cohort of up to 30 McCall MacBain Scholars will be selected after final interviews. If not selected for the cohort, Lucero will be eligible to receive C$20,000 for master’s studies at McGill.
“We are grateful to the more than 300 senior leaders who contribute their time to the decision-making process,” added Natasha Sawh, CEO of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill.
“The interview process allows students to reflect on their experiences and motivations, and we hope each one comes away from the process with a better understanding of their capacity to lead and to strengthen communities.”
