Frances Eurika Yu credits the support she received from her family, friends and the Lakeland College community, as well as late-night study sessions, for her academic success.

The 2025 Governor General Medal Recipient came to Lakeland from Quezon City, in the Philippines, looking to expand her education after earning a bachelor of arts in Asian studies there.

“I chose Lakeland because it offers a strong academic environment where I could deepen my knowledge of administration and gain a solid foundation in business,” she says.

Each year, the Governor General Medal is presented to the student with the highest GPA, one for each of Lakeland’s two campuses. Yu says she is happy and honoured to be Lloydminster’s recipient this year.

“All my efforts and late-night studies were worth it,” she says, adding, “My family, my partner and my friends helped me succeed. With their support, I surpassed all the challenges – physically, emotionally and financially. My professors also helped me as they believed and supported me. They were always willing to guide me. My superior and colleagues at the Ministry of Social Services and Westridge GMC supported and guided me as well. Whenever I needed time off to study or volunteer, they were always flexible with my schedule. Furthermore, the donors of Lakeland College, through scholarship and award grants, really helped me to cover some of my tuition.”

Yu didn’t spend all of her time at Lakeland studying, however. She got involved on campus wherever she could.

“My stay here at Lakeland was challenging and enriching,” Yu says. “One of the highlights was meeting new people and forming meaningful friendships. I actively participated in school activities, volunteered at events, including the 2025 tax clinics and joined the Business Case Competition Team, which was a valuable and great experience. I also tutored friends and schoolmates through peer tutoring. Outside school, I had the opportunity to volunteer at the 2024 Saskatchewan Summer Games, which was equally rewarding.”

After convocation, Yu plans to work in the accounting field, gaining more practical experience, and is considering working towards her Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation. She also wants to give back to her family by supporting them and spending more quality time with them, as well as staying active in volunteer work and making a positive impact.