Winning a scholarship during your high school years is a dream for most, but, for Ste. Rose's Kowan Kukurudz, it's a reality.
The 18-year-old was awarded one of just eight McDonalds Leadership Awards worth $1000.
"Oh, it mean's a lot," said Kukurudz. "It was awesome. It's a really cool experience, and it's really special to win."
Kowan's teacher sent in his application nominating him, but he had no thoughts of actually winning.
"I didn't expect it at all," he added. "I thought it was cool to be nominated, but I didn't think I would win it. Then, I got an email saying I won, and it was just so sweet. It was like a cherry on top of the cake."
He now plans on using the $1000 towards his tuition, as he plans to become a Chemistry teacher.
Most recently, Kowan took part in the High School Track & Field Championships in Winnipeg this past weekend, and the 18-year-old loved every minute of it.
"It was a ton of fun," said Kowan. "I've been really busy with school stuff, so I didn't train as much or do as well as I wanted, but it was a great experience."
The event was Kowan's final as a high school athlete, as he moves on to university in the fall, and he takes a look back at his years in high school playing sports and some of his favourite memories.
"Honestly playing sports and just meeting new people was amazing," said Kowan. "Going into grade 9, I was pretty shy, but sports brought me out of my shell. It just made me a better person, and I'm so thankful for the opportunities I've been given."
On top of excelling and giving it his all with sports during his high school years, Kowan maintained a 91% academic average.
AUDIO: Kowan Kukurudz.
