International Leader of Tomorrow Award Scholar Marcela Gomez from Colombia Shares Her Journey of Securing a Fully Funded Bachelor's Degree at the University of British Columbia, Canada

My name is Marcela Gomez, and I am originally from Medellin, Colombia. I hold a Master’s in International Development from the Paris School of International Affairs (PSIA) at Sciences Po in Paris.

Before that, I completed my Bachelor of Arts in International Relations at the University of British Columbia in Canada, where I studied as a recipient of the prestigious International Leader of Tomorrow Award.

Having lived in Colombia, Peru, Canada, and France, I have developed a strong interest in multicultural environments and global collaboration. My academic and professional focus is on international development, particularly in areas such as peacebuilding, emerging markets, and inclusive economic growth. I chose this path because I am deeply motivated to contribute to reducing global inequalities and supporting sustainable development initiatives.

Scholarships Details

I was awarded the Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award at the

University of British Columbia. This is a highly competitive, merit- and need-based full-ride scholarship that covers tuition, living expenses, and other costs for international undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement.

This scholarship made it possible for me to pursue my undergraduate studies abroad and access opportunities that shaped both my academic and professional trajectory.

Later on, I was also awarded the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, as well as the COLFUTURO Loan-Scholarship Program, which supported my graduate studies at Sciences Po.

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

Yes, in addition to the International Leader of Tomorrow Award, I was awarded the Eiffel

Excellence Scholarship and the COLFUTURO Loan-Scholarship Program for my master’s studies.

I also received several merit-based awards during my undergraduate studies at UBC, including the Trek Excellence Award (top 10% of my faculty) and the Arts Research Abroad Award to conduct research in Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Singapore.

Educational Background

I completed my Bachelor of Arts in International Relations at the University of British Columbia, graduating with Distinction. My degree combined political science, economics, and history, giving me a strong interdisciplinary foundation.

Throughout my studies, I maintained strong academic performance and was consistently recognized for academic excellence. I also participated in research programs, international fieldwork, and student-led conferences, which helped me develop strong analytical, research, and communication skills.

This background prepared me well for my Master’s in International Development at Sciences Po, where I further developed expertise in policy analysis, development economics, and international cooperation.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to UBC and Sciences Po?

When applying to UBC and the International Leader of Tomorrow Award, I focused on presenting a well-rounded application that highlighted not only my academic achievements but also my leadership and community involvement.

I carefully prepared my personal statement to reflect my values, experiences, and long-term goals. I also made sure to demonstrate how my background aligned with the scholarship’s emphasis on leadership, service, and global impact.

Preparation involved researching the university thoroughly, understanding the scholarship criteria, and ensuring that every part of my application told a consistent and compelling story.

How Did You Find Information About the Scholarships and Institutions?

I found information about the International Leader of Tomorrow Award through the University of British Columbia’s official website, as well as through school counselors and online research.

For my graduate studies, I relied on university websites, scholarship platforms, and networks of students who had previously studied abroad to identify opportunities such as Eiffel and COLFUTURO.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

To prepare, I followed a structured approach that included practicing past exams and focusing on improving specific skills such as academic writing and reading comprehension.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship?

For the International Leader of Tomorrow Award, preparation went beyond academics. I focused on showcasing my leadership experience, community involvement, and commitment to making a positive impact.

I highlighted my participation in student organizations, research projects, and community initiatives, as well as my ability to adapt to new environments and take initiative.

For later scholarships like Eiffel and COLFUTURO, I built on this foundation by emphasizing my academic achievements and professional experience.

How is Your Experience at Sciences Po and UBC?

My experience at the University of British Columbia was extremely enriching, both academically and personally. As an international student and International Leader of Tomorrow Award recipient, I was exposed to a diverse and intellectually stimulating environment.

UBC provided countless opportunities to engage in research, student organizations, and international experiences. I was involved in academic conferences, editorial work, and research projects that allowed me to apply what I learned in the classroom to real-world contexts.

Living in Canada also helped me grow independently, adapt to new environments, and build meaningful connections with people from around the world.

How Do You Rate Sciences Po and UBC Academically?

I would rate UBC very highly from an academic perspective. The International Relations program is interdisciplinary and rigorous, combining political science, economics, and history to provide a well-rounded education.

Professors are highly knowledgeable and supportive, and there is a strong emphasis on critical thinking, research, and discussion-based learning.

Additionally, the university encourages students to go beyond the classroom through research opportunities, exchange programs, and experiential learning, which significantly enhance the academic experience.

How Do Sciences Po and UBC Support International Students?

UBC provides strong support for international students, both academically and personally. There are dedicated services that help with academic advising, immigration processes, and adapting to life in Canada.

As an International Leader of Tomorrow Award recipient, I also benefited from financial support and a network that made the transition much smoother.

Beyond formal support, the campus has a very inclusive and multicultural environment, which helps international students feel welcomed and integrated into the community.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or French?

My classes at UBC were conducted entirely in English.

For my Master’s at Sciences Po in Paris, courses were primarily in English as well, particularly within the Paris School of International Affairs (PSIA), which is designed for an international student body.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Not Knowing French?

In my experience, it is possible to succeed academically without knowing the native language, especially in international programs like those at Sciences Po, where courses are offered in English.

However, learning the local language (in my case, French) greatly enhances the overall experience. It helps with daily life, social integration, and professional opportunities such as internships.

While not strictly necessary for academics, having at least a basic understanding of the local language is definitely an advantage.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because it combined strong academic performance with demonstrated leadership and a clear commitment to community engagement.

The International Leader of Tomorrow Award looks for students who not only excel academically but also show initiative and a desire to contribute to society. My involvement in research, conferences, and community outreach, along with my international experiences, helped illustrate this.

Additionally, my ability to connect my personal experiences to my future goals in international development created a clear and compelling narrative.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

If I could go through the process again, I would start earlier and seek even more feedback on my application essays. While my application was successful, additional time for reflection and refinement could have made the process smoother and less stressful.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

My advice to anyone applying for the International Leader of Tomorrow Award is to focus on presenting a balanced and authentic application. Academic excellence is important, but so is leadership, initiative, and community involvement.

Start early, be intentional about your story, and make sure your application clearly reflects who you are and what you care about.

It is also important to apply to multiple opportunities and remain persistent, as these scholarships are highly competitive.

Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of authenticity; sharing your genuine motivations and experiences can make a strong impression.