To continue our new series, Students with Stories, we sat down with a student that has quite the story: winning Canada’s Luckiest Student 2. We surprised Leah Meanwell earlier this year by making a splash.

We recently sat down with Leah to chat about what it felt like to win, how her life has changed and tips for students in CLS3. To change it up, we asked you on Facebook what you wanted to know from Leah. Here are some of your questions:

What was the first thought that raced through your head when you discovered you had won Canada’s Luckiest Student?

“They tricked the girl last year, too!”

So, what have you been up to as of late?

I’m a part of the Kinesiology Co-op Program at UBC and I am completing my second work term right now. I love it! Yes, it takes an extra year to finish your degree, but the experience is so worth it. Take co-op if you have the chance.

What was the first thing you did with the $20,000?

Put it in the bank! I wish there was a less boring answer than that, but then I’d be lying.

How many entries did you have in Canada’s Luckiest Student at the end if the contest?

I think it was 4560. Something around there.

Besides the obvious, how has your life changed after winning?

“It’s a relief not to worry about money. Not to worry about graduating with crippling debt. It’s also been a ton of fun!”

It hasn’t changed much, except it’s a relief not to worry about money. Not to worry about graduating with crippling debt. It’s also been a ton of fun—both the process of winning and having all the new toys to play with.

How much of the stuff did you keep (and what), and how much of it did you share/give away to friends?

I kept most of the stuff! I really love the GoPro and groceries, and my dad loves the family’s new TV! I have also shared some prizes with family and friends, as well as donated some gift cards to local charities.

Is winning just as awesome as we all think it is?

It is! Except when your face spasms cause you’re smiling so much. That kinda hurt.

What tips and tricks do you have for SLNers playing Canada’s Luckiest Student?

Check the websites every day. It’ll take you about 90 seconds if you have a half decent internet connection. You never know what might happen.

The best thing about being Canada’s Luckiest Student is…?

The wonderful experiences this year has brought me, as well as the ones that are to come!

Rapid Fire Questions:

Weapon of choice?

Myself. I like to disable people with my quick wit, sarcasm and karate (I’m a green belt in traditional Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate).

If you could go anywhere right now, where would you go?

I’m actually pretty happy where I am. Though I am excited to go to Thailand over Christmas (thanks SLN)!

What are you looking forward to tomorrow?

Making pies with my friend Emily!