ARRIVAL LOUNGE
“DO WHAT YOU DO AND DO IT WELL”
Andrew Lobo has completed three years at Harvard University.
By LOVINA D’SOUZA
Andrew Lobo’s family came to Canada from Mangalore, India, and settled in Scarborough, Ontario.
His mother Cheryl has raised Andrew, his older brother Daniel and younger sister Deborah after her husband Bobby’s premature passing.
When it was time for him to apply to universities, his mother Cheryl says, “Andrew did the application process all by himself”.
He was accepted at Harvard! Arguably the most prestigious university in the world, Harvard has topped Times’ Higher Education’s World University Ranking. Former president Barack Obama studied at Harvard.
How did it all begin and what was his reaction to receiving that letter of acceptance to the famous university?
“It was surreal getting in!” says Andrew. “Although I only decided to apply in Grade 11, I was deeply involved in extracurriculars throughout high school and graduated at the top of my class.
“I contributed over 750 hours to community service, served as head prefect and senior councillor-at-large in student government, captained both varsity and club volleyball teams, presided over the Wellness Team, and was the lead cantor for our school choir.
“Outside of school, I initiated a program to sponsor kids who couldn’t afford sports fees, led music for church’s youth ministry, and coached volleyball. I also interned with a Stanford-backed design thinking accelerator. Despite the time commitments, these activities brought me immense joy. Being able to engage with my community while having fun made the sleepless nights worthwhile. Receiving my acceptance letter was a dream come true. I’m indebted to my family, church, youth group, and many others who supported me, including you, aunty Lovina. Most of all, I give glory to God because He made all things possible.”
Having completed three years at Harvard, Andrew shares his experience at the world-renowned university.
“It brings together some of the world’s brightest students and the friends I have made are highly motivated and ambitious, which continually inspires me to strive for excellence in everything. I’ve had the opportunity to meet and share meals with notable professors and public figures who give talks and teach. The fascinating classes I’ve taken have transformed my worldview, allowing me to explore a wide range of subjects, develop my passions, and discover new ones.
“I study Statistics and Economics, but have also thoroughly enjoyed exploring classes in political philosophy and social theory as well. This past summer, I completed an internship in Investment Banking on Wall Street in New York. I just signed an offer to return full-time after I graduate in May 2025. Long term, I hope to continue working in the financial industry and eventually transition into fintech or venture capital.”
Andrew Lobo with his proud mon Cheryl.
His big tip for students planning their future is to do what they love and to do it well.
“During my long commutes to school, I used the time to complete homework or read books, which allowed me to dedicate time to athletics or volunteering. I took the most rigorous course load, mostly Advanced Placement and Honors classes. My other piece of advice is to take advantage of every opportunity – and create your own. I was fortunate to have opportunities to excel in various areas I pursued, but starting my own nonprofit initiative taught me invaluable lessons about organizing, fundraising and a deeper sense of ownership and responsibility.”
Harvard Business School’s mission statement is “Leaders make a difference in the world”.
Andrew Lobo is on his way to making that difference.
• If you’d like to share the story of your arrival in Canada, please write to desinews@rogers.com or call 416-695-4357.