Dear Reader,

Rejection letters are worrying to read, especially when they begin with, "Dear Ryan, the committee reached a decision - you are rejected." This sentence is extremely frightening and something I dread reading, but rejection will always lead me to find a way around it.

My dream is to study Aerospace Engineering at the University of Toronto. UofT offers one of the most competitive and respected engineering programs in Canada. The acceptance rate for Engineering Science (EngSci) is below 10%. EngSci provides me an entrance to aerospace specialization, and I am prepared to apply myself completely.

The path has not been straightforward. I come from a place with little access to STEM-like programs. The pressure to satisfy expectations from teachers, family along with friends weighs on me constantly. As I start Grade 11, the most important year of my high school education, the risks increase.

On that account, I am applying to SHAD, a program that provides leadership and STEM based activities to uprising highschoolers. This program holds national recognition and immensely aids my application. Although, the adverse side of things, SHAD costs over $7,000 to attend.

Fulfilling my goal provides me enough money for tuition, food, as well as local transportation-depending on the university I am selected to attend. With the permission of my parents, I request for ~$7,000 to afford and fund my SHAD journey, as well as my academic success. No matter the amount, I thank everyone who reads this as I'll always try my best to fulfill your expectations. If not, don't worry, reading this alone means so much to me. Thank you.