How my scholarship helped my university dream come true

Thanks to your generosity, 559 life-changing scholarships, bursaries and prizes were awarded this year

Your belief and backing has given first-year student Tia Ralhan an opportunity she thought she might never have. 

English with German undergraduate Tia got her first taste of university life at a Nottingham Potential Summer School – a support programme which gives bright young people from the Midlands the chance to experience university for a week. 

"I'm the first in my family to come to university. My parents always hoped I'd go but I wasn't sure if I'd be able to. If it hadn't been for the summer school experience I don't think I would have come here and realised how great university really is.

"By easing some of the financial pressures my Nottingham Potential Scholarship gives me more time to study and get involved with the fantastic range of clubs and societies the University offers."

Tia's passion for education is clear to see. She has already signed up as a student ambassador and gives up time each week to go to a local primary school in a disadvantaged area to encourage school children to read.

"There are so many talented young people who just need a helping hand and the confidence to believe in themselves. It's why I love helping the children to read and learn. It's my way of trying to give something back to the next generation – just like you have given something to me by helping fund my scholarship. I truly believe that education is key and can't say how grateful I am for your support."

For final-year student Sally Griffiths-Parry, her Clive Chaplin Law Scholarship has been a real lifeline. Sally has a pacemaker and a seperate condition which makes it difficult for her to maintain a healthy weight.

"I believe the peace of mind brought about by my scholarship has helped improve my health. I found it hard to afford the extra food I needed which meant I struggled to stay healthy. I really suffered with fatigue which affected the time I could study.

"The scholarship meant so much – even small things like buying extra food and an electric blanket made my time at Nottingham much more secure and enjoyable. 

"As I've felt better I've taken on extra challenges. I raised £2,650 for a children's charity, climbed Mount Kilimanjaro and became a student telephone fundraiser which gave me an opportunity to share my scholarship story with alumni. I hope one day I can help someone in the same way I've been helped."

If you would like to give a gift to help support students like Tia and Sally, please visit our Impact website 

 What's your story? Inspire our students

Were you first in your family to go to university? Join us at a summer school lunch and share your university experience with those who hope to follow in your footsteps.

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