When Newmarket’s Lucas Sampano was making his decision on what post-secondary institution to attend and what field to pursue, in the back of his mind he knew whatever he chose to do, he wanted it to have a positive impact on the world.
That led Sampano to Wilfrid Laurier University to study biochemistry and biotechnology because he says the world is progressing in a way where too many individuals are suffering from diseases for which there is no cure.
He says his passion for the subject lies in the pursuit of scientific breakthroughs that will one day alleviate human suffering and improve the quality of life, for both people and the planet.
“I aspire to be at the forefront of cutting-edge research, developing innovative solutions to address some of the most pressing global health challenges,” he said. “With advancements in biochemistry and biotechnology, I envision a world where personalized medicine is normal and tailored to individual needs based on genetic profiles.”
Sampano believes that unravelling the complexities of diseases at the molecular level will pave the way for more effective treatments and therapies, bringing hope to millions around the world.
Making a positive impact on his community has always been something Sampano has taken great pride in whether it be by volunteering, supporting local causes, or simply being there for neighbours, he said.
“We all have a responsibility to contribute to the well-being of the place we call home,” he said. “A thriving community benefits everyone, and by actively engaging in initiatives that promote positive change, we can create a ripple effect of goodness.”
Sampano said he finds “immense fulfillment” in knowing that his actions, no matter how small, can make a difference and that’s why growing up he participated in fish fry nights at his church, volunteered with SickKids Hospital fundraisers, and worked with the Town of Newmarket.
He said these experiences have not only allowed him to directly impact the lives of others but also taught him the value of empathy, compassion, and community solidarity.
“Through these projects, I was able to witness the power of collaboration and the transformative impact it can have on people's lives,” he said. “Seeing the smiles on the faces of those we helped and knowing that I played a part in making their lives a bit brighter has been incredibly rewarding.”
His efforts to make a difference in his community are why Sampano was recently awarded with a $3,000 scholarship as part of Municipal Retirees Organization Ontario (MROO).
When Sampano first got the news that he would be a recipient of the MROO scholarship, he said he was ecstatic and deeply honoured.
“This scholarship means a lot to me as it opens doors for a brighter future and brings me closer to achieving my goals, so I was very grateful to hear this news,” he said.
Recipients for the scholarships were determined based on specific eligibility criteria, including the student’s leadership skills, volunteer experience, and commitment to making a difference in their communities.
MROO awarded a total of $134,000 in scholarships to 44 students in Ontario as part of the MROO Student Scholarship Program for 2023.
