January 9, 2012

Tristan Downing is about to attend the same university as Sir Isaac Newton, Bertrand Russell, Charles Darwin and Stephen Hawking.

Semiahmoo Secondary IB student Tristan Downing won a $150,000 University of Cambridge scholarship.

And he's doing it on a full-ride $150,000 scholarship, courtesy of the Blyth Cambridge Commonwealth Trust.

The 17-year-old Semiahmoo Secondary senior is one of only three Canadians to be awarded the full entrance scholarship to the University of Cambridge. The scholarship is presented annually to students who show academic excellence, intellectual depth, personal integrity and success beyond their school studies.

Tristan's scholarship application included a 1,000-word essay, three letters of recommendation, a list of his academic achievements and a grueling interview with the scholarship selection committee.

Tristan is a student in Semiahmoo's International Baccalaureate program. IB program co-ordinator Lynne Porpaczy says Tristan has considerable natural talent, but also works hard and finds time to contribute to his community by coaching sailing at Crescent Beach and playing the piano at his church.

"He inspires me when he describes his goal to become an engineer so he can find practical ways to help build a more sustainable future and work with struggling communities through Engineers Without Borders. I believe Tristan will use this award and opportunity for a very worthy purpose."

Porpaczy adds that she's grateful for scholarship founder Sam Blyth's recognition of Tristan's work and academic potential.

Last Updated: January 9, 2012