The Alberta School of Business at the University of Alberta and nine other top Canadian universities are granting a new and noteworthy award to some of Canada's most deserving and internationally-minded students.
"Studying abroad helps students to develop the skills and mindset needed to collaborate and compete on a global stage," Jason Henderson, Executive Vice President and Head of Global Banking and Markets for HSBC Bank Canada and executive sponsor of the new award program. "The HSBC International Business Awards will lower financial barriers to international study for 60 deserving students across Canada - including six from the Alberta School of Business - and possibly give them an opportunity to build an international career at HSBC."
Each recipient will receive $10,000 to help cover the costs associated with studying abroad, with the award being granted on the basis of academic achievement, leadership and financial need related to the additional costs of completing an international university exchange program. In addition, they can apply for a summer internship with HSBC Bank Canada, as well as a place in one of the international bank's management trainee programs upon graduation.
"Over 80% of our undergraduate students are Canadian, with the majority being from Alberta" said Joseph Doucet, Dean of the Alberta School of Business. "By going on an exchange and seeing beyond Alberta's borders, they gain a better understanding of international markets and issues, which enhances their development as business professionals."
The new award is anticipated to be welcome news for the six students set to receive the award at the Alberta School of Business. In fact, HSBC's latest global survey study: the Value of Education, suggests that 6 in 10 parents in Canada would like to see their child study abroad. Whereas in comparison, a 2014 research study by the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE), states that only 3% of Canadian students are going abroad on international study programs or exchanges - one of the lowest numbers among Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development countries.
Granted to two business school students each year for three years at each of the 10 universities, a total of 60 students are expected to receive the award by 2017. More information on the HSBC International Business Award is available by emailing ugradbus@ualberta.ca