President’s International Scholarship of Excellence Recipient Arsh Dharani from the Democratic Republic of the Congo Shares His Journey of Pursuing a Degree in Financial and Business Economics at York University

My name is Arsh Dharani, and I am an international student originally from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). I am currently a third-year student at York University, pursuing a degree in Financial and Business Economics. I have always been curious about how economies function, how businesses grow, and how financial decisions shape societies, which led me to pursue further education in this field.

I am a recipient of the President’s International Scholarship of Excellence, a full four-year scholarship valued at $180,000, awarded by York University. I also received an entrance scholarship upon admission. This opportunity has been truly life-changing and has allowed me to focus fully on my academic and personal growth.

Previous Education

I completed my secondary education at Aga Khan Academy Mombasa in Kenya, where I followed the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. I graduated with an IB score of 38, which is a competitive academic result. The IB experience helped me develop strong critical thinking, research, and time-management skills, all of which prepared me well for university-level studies and contributed significantly to my scholarship application.

How Did You Find Information About Scholarships and York University?

I found information about scholarships primarily through York University’s official website. The scholarship section was clear, well-organized, and easy to navigate, which made it simple to identify scholarships I was eligible for. While exploring different opportunities, I came across the President’s International Scholarship of Excellence and decided to apply.

I truly believe that receiving this scholarship was by the grace of God. At the time, I was preparing to confirm my admission to another institution, the University of Toronto, when I received the scholarship email from York University late at night. It came at the perfect moment and completely changed the direction of my journey.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the President’s International Scholarship of Excellence?

Preparation was a very intentional process. I first ensured that all my academic documents were in order, including my IB predicted grades and transcripts. I also focused on strengthening my extracurricular profile and clearly documenting my experiences.

A major part of the application was the scholarship essay. I spent a lot of time writing, rewriting, and refining it. I added a strong personal touch and made sure my story was authentic. The essay went through multiple rounds of feedback and edits with the help of my teachers and peers. This process helped me present my experiences and motivations in a clear and compelling way.

What Has Your Experience at York University Been Like So Far?

My experience at York University has been extremely positive. I genuinely enjoy what I am learning and feel passionate about my program. Academically, York provides strong resources, supportive faculty, and a competitive environment that constantly pushes me to improve.

I have met many driven and motivated students who inspire me to do better, and I appreciate the diverse perspectives that come from being part of such a global academic community.

How Does York University Support International Students?

York University does an excellent job supporting international students, particularly through financial support and scholarships. Receiving this scholarship has lifted a huge financial burden, allowing me to focus entirely on my studies and personal development without worrying about tuition or living costs.

In addition to financial support, York offers academic resources, advising, and a welcoming environment for international students. These supports make a significant difference, especially for students who are studying away from home.

Did Language Present Any Challenges in Your Studies?

All my classes are conducted in English, and I have not faced any language-related academic challenges. Since Canada is an English-speaking country and York University offers strong academic support, I believe international students can adapt well, even if English is not their first language.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because of the personal story I shared. I began my essay by talking about my early academic journey, including starting high school at the age of 10, and how that experience shaped my discipline, independence, and motivation.

Rather than focusing only on achievements, I focused on storytelling and authenticity. I think that personal connection played a key role in making my application memorable.

Would You Do Anything Differently During the Application Process?

Looking back, I do not think I would do anything differently. The process taught me the value of preparation, feedback, and authenticity, and I am grateful for how everything turned out.

What Advice Would You Give to Future Scholarship Applicants?

My advice would be to follow deadlines carefully, stay organized, and most importantly, be authentic. Do not be afraid to share your personal stories, challenges, and experiences. Admissions committees want to understand who you are beyond grades.

It is also important to clearly explain why you are passionate about your chosen field of study and how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals.