“One piece of advice I’d give to future Luminaries is to never give up even in the darkest of times.” Meet Beedie Luminary, Radhika Patel, taking Business Administration at UBC
What program will you be taking in post-secondary and why does it interest you?
Having been a beneficiary of non-profits such as Big Sisters and Volunteer Grandparents, I understand first hand the impact organizations can have on an individual’s life. As well through volunteering at non-profit organizations, I developed a passion for tasks such as marketing and grant-writing. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Commerce and work in the non-profit sector, in hopes to provide the same resources and programs that allowed me to overcome personal challenges.
Tell us a little bit about your background (growing up, going to school, extra-curricular activities, etc.).
I was raised by a single mother and lived alongside my grandfather. Although my family is small, the love and care they provide is unconditional. Throughout my time at Moscrop Secondary my Volunteer Grandmother, Maureen and my Big Sister, Inder, were both constant support systems, helping me through my own self-esteem issues. They motivated me to step outside my comfort zone and showcase my passions, which inspired me to start a Book Club at Moscrop in my last year of high-school. Reading has always been a keen interest of mine as I wrote reviews on new teen novels for Vancouver Public Library. Through book club our discussions were a great way to connect students of all grades. Along with supporting me, both Inder and Maureen have introduced me to activities such as skiing, sowing, and even white water river-rafting! In fact each year to celebrate our Match Anniversary, Inder takes me white water river rafting in Squamish River.
Who inspires you, and why?
My biggest inspiration is my mother. My mother single-handedly raised me and in order to play an active role in my life chose to work from home. Her decisions have allowed me to feel nurtured and supported in all my goals. From a young age her bravery was awe-inspiring, as she overcame her immense struggles and remained committed to care for my grandfather and I. Her ability to persevere in the hardest of times is what I admire most.
What motivates you, and why?
What motivates me are challenges. Throughout my life I’ve faced many obstacles, and through watching individuals such as my mom or my Volunteer Grandmother Maureen, I’ve learnt how to persevere as well as embrace the opportunity to learn through solving challenges.
What are your goals for the upcoming school year?
For the upcoming school year I hope to become an active member at University of British Columbia through joining clubs. As well, I wish to explore all career paths in my field and maintain a healthy school, life balance.
What is one thing you learned in high school that you will take with you to post-secondary?
One thing I learnt in high-school that will resonate with me is the importance of balancing work and life. Finding the balance between studying and leisure in high-school helped ease the level of stress I dealt, and so focusing on maintaining a healthy balance at university will aid the transition from high-school to post-secondary.
What is one piece of advice you’d give to future Luminaries?
One piece of advice I’d give to future Luminaries is to never give up even in the darkest of times.
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