Jules Ebwele Mpako is a Lime Network member and BMOCM Lime Scholar. He's currently a senior majoring in Actuarial Science and Risk Management at Georgia State University. He also works as an Actuarial Analyst at Optum, a consulting firm for UnitedHealth Group.

Why did you decide to apply for the BMO Capital Markets Lime Connect Equity Through Education Scholarship? 

Lime Connect was recommended to me by a friend as a great source for improving my interviewing skills. After a positive experience, I was encouraged to dive into other resources and opportunities available through Lime Connect, which included the BMOCM Lime Scholarship. 

I was interested in applying because BMO Capital Markets' objective aligns with my career goal of joining the capital market as an investment actuary. And more importantly, I liked the BMO's initiative of helping and supporting underrepresented students to fulfill their dreams. I was honored to be a part of that group. 

How has the scholarship helped advance your education and career?

The BMOCM Lime ETE Scholarship covered my full tuition for 2019-2020 and removed a significant financial barrier. Without this opportunity, I would be more focused on trying to earn money to pay my tuition and other expenses. This scholarship relieved me of that pressure and I was more confident and was easily able to obtain an internship. I am able to better manage my time to study, learn, and search for a  job before graduation.

Do you have any advice for prospective applicants? 

Just try and be sincere and honest when you're applying. That's the key to success for anything in life, including this application.

Applications are open for the BMO Capital Markets Lime Connect Equity Through Education Scholarship. The deadline to apply is Sunday, February 14, 2021, at midnight PST / 3am EST. 

Selected recipients will receive $10,000 USD (students in the US) or $5,000 USD (students in Canada) to support their future studies. Click here to learn more and apply!