Every year, The Best School Year Ever® contest opens the door for motivated students from across Canada and the United States to experience everything SMUS has to offer. Winners and finalists receive significant scholarships that make it possible to join the school’s vibrant boarding community, challenge themselves academically, and pursue new passions. For many, the impact of the contest lasts far beyond their first year on campus.
Now in its 12th year, the contest has grown far beyond its early beginnings in 2014. It was created to open doors for exceptional students who may not otherwise have access to an independent school education, offering them a chance to experience the academic challenge, supportive boarding community, and wide-ranging opportunities that define SMUS. Each year, applicants bring in their stories, ambitions, and unique perspectives—making the contest not only a scholarship, but a pathway to possibility.
Julia Sherrard: Growing Confidence and Independence
Julia Sherrard, a 2024–25 grand prize winner from Dawson City, Yukon, arrived seeking greater academic challenge than what her small K–12 school could offer. Now in Grade 11, she’s thriving in advanced Biology and English courses. “I enjoy it at a hard level, one that pushes and challenges me,” she says. Boarding life has offered her both independence and connection: “Socially, it’s been really nice. I’ve found my people here. I feel like I’ve become a better version of myself.” She credits the support of her House Parents, university counsellors, and teachers for helping her map a clear path toward her long-held dream of studying medicine.
Lexi Carswell: Exploring New Paths and Opportunities
For Lexi Carswell, a 2024–25 finalist from Banff, Alberta, SMUS opened the door to a world of involvement. Now in Grade 12, she’s part of the rowing team, serves on both the service and athletics councils, and participates in the music production club. “It was super easy to meet people, especially in boarding,” she says. “You’re constantly surrounded by people you enjoy being around.” With guidance from university counsellors, she’s exploring post-secondary options she never knew existed, broadening her vision for the future.
Gautam Jay: Building Brotherhood and Leadership
Gautam Jay, the 2023–24 grand prize winner from Fort McMurray, Alberta, remembers first hearing about the contest in a Spotify ad—a moment that changed his life. Now a Grade 12 student and Head of Bolton House, he says boarding has been the most transformative part of his experience. “The Bolton brotherhood—the family I’ve built over the last three years—is pretty special,” he shares. Through advanced courses, leadership opportunities, and the day-to-day rhythm of living with peers from around the world, Gautam says he’s grown in confidence, independence, and perspective.
For all three students, The Best School Year Ever® contest has been more than a scholarship—it has sparked confidence, curiosity, and lifelong friendships, shaping who they are and who they hope to become.
Do you know someone who would thrive at SMUS? Encourage them to apply for the 2026-27 contest by December 1.
