Established with a historic $200 million gift in 2019, the McCall MacBain Scholarships are Canada’s largest leadership-based scholarships for master’s and professional studies. More than 700 Canadian students applied for the opportunity, and the top 150 participated in the first round of interviews across the country and online. Afterwards, 91 finalists were invited to attend final interviews in Montreal in March.

The scholarship covers tuition, living stipends, relocation, and additionally mentorship, coaching, and leadership program activities.

“I received the news in my hometown of Amherst, Nova Scotia. For me, it was a full-circle moment finding out in the place where I grew my roots, realizing how far I’ve come and the many role models who have shaped me along the way. I’m truly grateful!” said Rajan. “What means the most to me is the people. Being surrounded by mentors and a community that challenges and supports you at such a high level is rare. It gives me the space to grow, shape my future, and turn the work I care about into something meaningful for others.”

 

Recipients were chosen based on exceptional character, community engagement, leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, academic strength, and intellectual curiosity.

Rajan graduated from Mount Allison University with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. Since graduation, he has been pursuing a Global Affairs Canada internship at IPB University in Indonesia.

During his studies, Rajan co-led the Chemistry and Biochemistry Society as well as the Pre-Dental Society. He contributed to the Mount Allison Students' Union for four years, including two as Science Senator. In addition, Rajan led a group of volunteers to fundraise for Cystic Fibrosis, co-captained the cross-country team, co-founded an interdisciplinary science student association, and worked on campus. Having previously worked on SHAD Canada summer programs in Toronto and Sackville, he spent last summer helping coordinate the organization's virtual campus.

“My time at Mount Allison taught me that growth is never a solo journey,” said Rajan. “With the support of mentors and peers, I learned to lead with empathy, ask better questions, and approach uncertainty with curiosity. Their guidance shaped how I learn, lead, and step into challenges with confidence and care.”

Rajan's honours thesis examined the impacts of climate change on a species of freshwater fish. He will enter the Master of Science in Dental Sciences program at McGill, researching the interaction of biomaterials on tissue and bone regeneration.

“I’m excited to work in the Clinical Innovation Platform at the Montreal General Hospital at McGill, where research connects directly to real-world care. Being in that environment will push me to think differently, build practical skills, and turn ideas into something that can truly make a difference,” he said.

“These scholarships go beyond financial support. They’re about investing in the leadership potential of individuals who dare to pursue unconventional paths and care deeply about improving the lives of others,” said Dr. Marcy McCall MacBain, Chair of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill.

“Every McCall MacBain Scholar has participated in six different interviews to earn this opportunity,” said Natasha Sawh, CEO of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill. “In September, they will join a diverse, interdisciplinary network of graduate students committed to bringing people together and creating meaningful change.”

Rajan was one of three Mount Allison University students honoured this year. Jigmet, a Bachelor of Commerce graduate from India, will receive a $20,000 International McCall MacBain Finalist Award to pursue a Master of Management in Retailing. Bridget Powning, from the Philosophy, Politics, and Economics program, earned a $5,000 Canadian McCall MacBain Regional Award for eligible studies at any public university in Canada.

Applications will open in June 2026 for the 2027 cohort. More information about the McCall MacBain Scholarships can be found at mccallmacbainscholars.org.