Bursary helps student enter the workforce

Posted: May 4, 2012 8:00 a.m.

Justin Delorme is a recent recipient of the Birks Family Foundation Bursary for the Aboriginal Co-operative Education Program and Employment Services. He is a fourth-year Business Administration student at the First Nations University of Canada.
Justin Delorme is a recent recipient of the Birks Family Foundation Bursary for the Aboriginal Co-operative Education Program and Employment Services. He is a fourth-year Business Administration student at the First Nations University of Canada. Photo: U of R Photography

The University of Regina offers an array of bursaries, scholarships and awards that provide financial assistance to help students succeed in their post-secondary education.

Fourth-year First Nations University of Canada Faculty of Business Administration student Justin Delorme knows firsthand the benefits financial assistance can bring to a student in need. Delorme is a recipient of the Birks Family Foundation Bursary for the Aboriginal Co-operative Education Program and Employment Services.

Last year Delorme accepted a summer-student position at Farm Credit Canada (FCC) and although he was excited to work there, he couldn’t afford the business attire that was usual for the job.

“Panic set in. With a five-year old and a newborn, money around the house was really tight. I couldn’t afford to go out and buy new clothes for my summer job,” said Delorme. “I didn’t know what to do. I thought I would have to sell some of my personal belongings.”

That’s where the bursary came in.

Delorme like other recipients received the bursary because they were offered employment but for one reason or another needed financial assistance to fully realize their opportunity.

“I am extremely thankful for the financial relief from the bursary that helped me purchase business attire.”

Delorme, who grew up on the Kahkewistahaw First Nation, is the first in his immediate family to graduate from high school and will be the first to graduate from university. Receiving an education and obtaining his degree is extremely important to Delorme who is confident it will lead to a better future for him and his family.

“Knowing that my education will provide for my family makes me proud of my accomplishments. I can’t stress enough how important bursaries are to help students like me succeed.”

For more information about students awards and financial aid visit: www.uregina.ca/awards.