Cabot High Grad Bound for Vet School

At 13, few teens would know what they wanted to do for the rest of their lives. Not Adam Algar.

The young Cape Bretoner loved animals and loved reading fiction by James Herriot, books with veterinary themes. So when his dog was injured in a fight, he knew he wanted to be a vet when he grew up.

Now, five years later, Mr. Algar is on his way to realizing his dream. He's headed to Guelph University in Ontario this fall to begin studies toward an undergraduate degree in zoology, the first stop on his journey to becoming a veterinarian.

A graduate from Cabot High School in Neils Harbour, Mr. Algar will attend Guelph on one of 12 President's Scholarship awarded by the university. The scholarship recognizes high academic standing, as well as extracurricular activities and volunteer work in the school and community. It takes into special consideration positions of leadership.

"Adam is one of our top students and is involved in many school activities. He has worked hard throughout his schooling and deserves this award," says Cabot High principal Wayne Budge, who nominated Mr. Algar for the scholarship. "He is a top-notch person."

Mr. Algar is an avid skier and a member of the Nova Scotia cross-country ski team. He also enjoys mountain biking and birdwatching in the Cape Breton Highlands. At school, he was captain of the basketball and soccer teams.

"Being captain, I've taken on a leadership role both on and off the court," he says. "This position has given me the opportunity to be a role model and help younger players reach their potential."

Athletics is not the only area where Mr. Algar excels. He has played the bagpipes for about 10 years and has had the honour of piping for the premier of Nova Scotia. He also has a passion for poetry: few things, he says, give him greater joy than transferring a thought and a feeling to paper in the form of a poem. "It is as if I am sharing a part of my soul with the world."

At high school, Mr. Algar contributed to different committees -- the yearbook and graduation committees were just two this past year. Outside of Cabot High, he assists in the community church school, sets up sound systems for community benefit concerts, and referees basketball games at the junior high to men's level.

Mr. Algar says he knows university life will be different, but believes hard work can achieve much. He sums up his philosophy: "Go hard. When you think you are giving everything you have, push a little harder. Try not to lose focus on your goals and continually look ahead."

NOTE TO EDITORS: To arrange a photograph, please contact Andrea MacKenzie at the above number or e-mail address.