Sarah Bannon, Lang Scholar Recipient
Program/ major at UofG/ Lang: Food and Agricultural Business (Co-op)
Hometown: Shelburne, ON
How have you improved your community?
"I was the 2018/2019 Shelburne Junior Fall Fair Ambassador. In this role, I helped organize an Agricultural Awareness day for students in elementary school, and I helped educate members of my community about the importance of agriculture. Additionally, I volunteered with other organizations in my community including the local food bank and a charity youth camp. I also organized activities for teens at my local library."
What does it mean to be named one of the Lang Scholars?
"I am very honored to be named one of the inaugural Lang Scholars. Receiving this distinction was very rewarding, as it made me realize that all the effort I put into volunteering and extracurricular activities during high school was appreciated. Being named a Lang scholar and meeting my peers has reinforced the fact that every little thing you do can have a positive effect on society."
Why did you choose to attend Lang at the UofG?
"I chose to study at Lang as opposed to other business schools due to the unique majors offered at Lang. The Food and Agricultural Business program really appealed to me and I was intrigued by the courses that I would take at Lang that were not offered at other schools. I think that the niche majors offered at Lang help students stand out to employers and give students valuable skills that apply directly to their chosen fields."
How do you think business can be used as a force for good?
"I think that businesses are often viewed negatively by society when in reality, most businesses just want to help people. Businesses develop products specifically with the needs of consumers in mind, and many products are created as a solution to a problem. In the future, I hope that businesses continue to look for ways to help, and not harm consumers in sustainable ways that have limited negative effects on the environment."
What are your career aspirations?
"I have not decided on a specific career that I would like to have in the future, however through my co-op placements, I hope that I am able to learn more about certain jobs within the business community that interest me. No matter what career path I choose, I hope to find ways that allow me to give back to my community."