Iqaluit (Mar 06/06) - Lindsay Sowdluapik-Lloyd's volunteer work landed her a full scholarship amounting to almost $75,000.

The Canadian Merit Scholarship Foundation (CMSF) chose the 18-year-old from Iqaluit and 29 other "young leaders" from across Canada out of approximately 3,500 applicants.

Lindsay Sowdluapik-Lloyd, 18, of Iqaluit is one of 30 students across Canada who received the 2006 Canadian Merit Scholarship Foundation scholarship, worth nearly $75,000. - photo courtesy of Lifetouch Canada

Competing for a CMSF scholarship is not for sissies.

"The CMSF selection process is the most rigorous of any scholarship-granting foundation in Canada," touts the foundation itself.

Lloyd fits the bill with her volunteer service in Iqaluit and through Pearson College, near Victoria, B.C., where she is now studying.

She spends time with youth from a nearby reserve, assisting them with their school work and organizing and helping to introduce more recreation.

Lloyd was co-president of the youth advisory panel of the Nunavut Court of Justice. She also volunteered with the Crisis Help Line and the Qimaavik Womens Shelter.

"I get a lot out of it," said Lloyd. "I really enjoy it."

She says she is not only helping people through her efforts, but the people are helping her in return.

"I learn a lot from them. Also, I enjoy the sharing and co-operation."

She says she's become more confident, gained strong relationships and friendships and a better understanding of what's happening in her community "on a day-to-day basis" through volunteering.

Lloyd notes that the more involved one is, the more opportunities arise.

"There are so many opportunities for students. It's important they become more aware of the chances out there."

Lloyd plans to apply the scholarship to study at Ottawa University or Queens.