A University of British Columbia biophysics student has been
named the 2005 Rhodes Scholar for British Columbia.
The scholarship of more than $100,000 will allow fourth-year
student Michael Rivers-Bowerman to pursue two years of undergraduate
studies in politics, philosophy and economics at Oxford University,
beginning in September 2005.
“We’re very proud to have one of our students
named to this distinguished scholarship,” says Brian
Sullivan, UBC vice-president, Students. “Michael’s
many extra-curricular interests and community contributions,
on top of his stellar academic achievements, exemplify the
well-rounded citizenship we try to foster at UBC.”
Rivers-Bowerman is interested in medical physics and the
technology involved in detecting, diagnosing, and treating
cancer patients. Three co-op work terms at BC Cancer Agency
allowed him to be involved in cancer research and fuelled
his interest in a medical career.
“Being able to study at Oxford is the opportunity of
a lifetime,” says the 22-year-old. “I’m
very grateful to be the recipient of this award and I look
forward to broadening my education in an institution renowned
for its international scholarship.”
Rivers-Bowerman’s service to the community includes
volunteer work at the Vancouver General Hospital, and with
the Canadian Cancer Society’s Camp Goodtimes that provides
a camp experience for children with cancer — an experience
he cites as one of the highlights of the last four years.
This past summer he worked with youth at the Kiwassa Neighbourhood
House in East Vancouver.
He has also established a tutoring program at Killarney Secondary
School in Vancouver where he and fellow graduates return to
the school as tutors. This program has been in place for three
years.
Rivers-Bowerman plays basketball in a number of men’s
leagues, and now coaches at the high-school level. A member
of the UBC Wind Ensemble for four years, he plays the euphonium
(a cross between a tuba and a trombone.)
The Rhodes Scholarships, established in 1902, were designed
to bring outstanding students from across the world to study
at Oxford University, in the interests of promoting international
understanding and public service.
The scholarships require a high level of literacy and scholastic
achievement, success in sports, strong qualities of leadership
and character, and evidence of public service. Past scholars
include former Prime Minister John Turner and former U.S.
President Bill Clinton.
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