[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Cowl_Lauren.jpg” caption=”Fourth-year philosophy and political science student Lauren Cowl is the recipient of the Chancellor’s Gold Medal. Photo by Susan Bubak.”]More than 1,000 students will cross the stage at Hamilton Place to receive their degrees today as part of McMaster's Fall Convocation.

Fourth-year philosophy and political science student Lauren Cowl will receive one of McMaster's most prestigious awards: the Chancellor's Gold Medal, which recognizes a student in his/her final year who ranks highest in scholarship, leadership and influence.

Each Faculty nominates a student and the winner is chosen by a selection committee. For Cowl, it was an honour just to be nominated.

“I didn't think it would go beyond [a nomination], so it was a big surprise,” she says.

Cowl's passion for learning helped her achieve success both inside and outside the classroom.

“I haven't come across a course that I wasn't interested in,” she says. “I like learning and my professors have been very supportive. They encouraged me to ask questions.”

Outside the classroom, Cowl plays intramural soccer and water polo. She is also president of the McMaster Debate Society and serves on the Department of Philosophy's curriculum committee.

For the past four years, she has volunteered with the basic skills program at Dundas-based Choices, where she works with adults who have developmental disabilities. The program helps integrate them into the community and lead independent lives.

After Cowl graduates next June, she hopes to attend law school. She says working in the legal field would enable her to challenge the barriers faced by marginalized or underrepresented members of society.

“I think [pursuing] a law degree is an effective way to make those changes,” says Cowl.