Ally Wilson seldom lets herself imagine where she would be if it weren’t for the scholarship that allowed her to study at Dalhousie.

“For me, it’s really hard to believe that if it weren’t for the J & W Murphy Scholarship, I may not have ever been a Dal student. I would be so different – things would be so different!”

But luckily for the fourth-year Bachelor of Science student, receiving the scholarship helped to put her on the path she is on today.

Gaining insight and experience

Wilson is a keen student who says her third and fourth year of study have been the academic highlight of her time at Dalhousie particularly because of the bond she has formed with some of her professors.

“I feel lucky to be in classes that are intimate and focused,” says Wilson. “I’ve been fortunate to make connections here at Dal with people who have become mentors to me. They’ve helped me to gain experiences and perception.”

For Wilson, the knowledge and insight she has gained from these relationships has also helped her discover her passion which she hopes to turn into a career.

“I came to university with an interest in marine biology. I’ve narrowed that down and now I’m focusing on working in ocean conservation. I want to make a global contribution.”

What the future holds

Wilson plans to take a seaside summer course following graduation and beyond that she will see what the future holds. She finds herself trying to stay in the moment, enjoying the last of her undergraduate degree, and often reflecting on her entire experience.

“I feel grateful that I’ve met people who have helped me academically. Being here has changed me personally as well. I came to Dal being so shy and timid. Because of all of my experiences I’ve grown so much and matured,” says Wilson. “I often find myself reflecting and I’m just so grateful to everyone. If it weren’t for the scholarship, I wouldn’t have had all of these great opportunities and that’s all just so hard to fathom.”

“To say thank you for this incredible opportunity would be an understatement. This scholarship has impacted my future in the best way possible – it’s been such a gift!”