Yeganeh Habibi, an Iranian Scholar, Shares Her Journey to Winning the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship at McGill University

My name is Yeganeh Habibi, and I was born and raised in Tehran, Iran. I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Chemistry at McGill University, where my research focuses on investigating the role of enzyme dynamics in natural products' biosynthetic pathways. Growing up, I constantly sought to challenge societal norms, particularly gender-based restrictions, which fueled my passion for pursuing education and leadership roles. My decision to pursue chemistry stems from a deep curiosity about understanding life at a molecular level and using that knowledge to address global health challenges, such as antibiotic resistance. In my final B. Sc. year, I was admitted to an M. Sc. program in Iran. However, to fulfill my goal of studying in a diverse, merit-based community and to expand my knowledge I decided to embark on my Ph. D. at McGill University.

Scholarship Details

During my academic journey, I have been honored to receive prestigious scholarships, including the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship and the Fonds de Recherche du Québec – Nature et Technologies (FRQNT). These awards recognize research excellence and leadership among Ph.D. students in Canada. Notably, both scholarships require institutional nomination (from McGill University, in my case) and also allow for pursuing academic roles abroad under specific conditions.

Educational Background

I earned my B.Sc. in Chemistry from the University of Tehran (GPA: 3.9/4). Alongside maintaining a strong academic record, I engaged in multidisciplinary research at three institutes, building a solid foundation in scientific problem-solving from various perspectives. Additionally, I actively participated in student organizations, advocacy groups, and event planning to broaden my experience and make a meaningful impact during my university years.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for McGill University and Other Institutions?

Applying to institutions abroad was a multi-step process that began with identifying countries, cities, and research groups aligned with my interests. To streamline this, I created an Excel sheet to score my preferred research groups based on key values and prioritized applying for the ones with the highest score. I then focused on crafting a compelling statement of purpose, updating my CV, and securing strong recommendation letters. To strengthen my application, I worked on improving my English proficiency and achieved competitive TOEFL, GRE, and GRE Chemistry scores by utilizing online resources, study guides, and preparatory classes.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Vanier Canada and FRQNT Scholarships?

Applying for the Vanier and FRQNT scholarships required demonstrating not only academic excellence but also leadership and community-building, rooted in the skillset I built during my B.Sc. To strengthen my resume after starting my Ph. D. in Canada, I initially applied for less competitive departmental funds. Simultaneously, I maintained a strong academic record, engaged in impactful research, and held leadership roles—key factors for any scholarship application. Additionally, I sought feedback from mentors and past recipients to refine and strengthen my applications.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

That is a challenging question. I believe my application stood out because of a combination of academic excellence, impactful leadership, and a narrative of resilience and determination. Connecting my personal story—overcoming societal norms in Iran—to my academic and professional goals likely resonated with reviewers. Furthermore, my publications in high-impact journals and my dedication to fostering equity and inclusion within the academic community (merits that are acknowledged by Canada) strengthened my application.

What Would You Have Done Differently?

If I were to go through the process again, I would focus more on expanding my network before arriving in Canada by reaching out to lab members, setting up Zoom calls, and building a supportive community. I would also invest more time in taking workshops on essay writing and communication skills.

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

My motto is: “I wasn’t born a leader; I’ve taught myself to become one.” So, appreciate your unique qualities, nurture them, and build your life on personal merits rather than societal expectations. For the purpose of applying for scholarships:

1. Start early and thoroughly research the requirements.
2. Highlight your unique story and align it with the scholarship's values.
3. Dedicate time to writing, editing, and crafting a strong statement of purpose that reflects both your achievements and your leadership impact.
4. Seek feedback from mentors and peers.
5. Be authentic and let your passion shine through in your application.