She received the call from the University of Winnipeg during her 18th birthday celebrations.

Ally Klassen is the recipient of the U of W's largest scholarship, the $48,000 Walter Leatherdale Entrance Scholarship. Klassen graduated from the Steinbach Regional Secondary School with a 96% grade point average.

She says she was on her way to her grandparents house for her birthday dinner and couldn't quite believe the news.

"I was kind of shocked the whole time she [Kam Holland - Director of Awards and Finance] was talking and explaining it to me. Then I went up and told my parents and they didn't believe it either at first. They were just so proud of me. I immediately called my older sister who's in Winnipeg."

Klassen says she remembers submitting her application with two reference letters, high school reference letter, answered essay questions and a list of extra-curricular activities which include student council, music and an orange belt in Kung Fu.

She notes this scholarship brings peace of mind.

"It takes the pressure off. I don't have to work during the year, like I don't have to get a part-time job during the year I can just focus on my studies. And this summer I'm able to take off and spend time with my younger sister. So next year I'll start working and save money for medical school."

Klassen adds she will be studying biochemistry and then she's hoping to get into medicine to become a pediatrician.