Your generous donations to scholarships give students from disadvantaged backgrounds the chance to enjoy university life to its fullest, without constant money worries. By relieving the financial pressure of juggling long hours in a part-time job, you’re ensuring they can concentrate on their academic achievements and extra-curricular activities to help them grow as a person.

Lucy Smith standing in the Trent Building Courtyard.

One such student that has benefitted from your support is Lucy Smith (third year, Psychology). Her scholarship has given her the freedom to volunteer for Nightline and also start a new Brownies group near the university.

“Whilst neither of my parents, nor any of my grandparents attended university, I knew I wanted to pursue higher education, and my family were always very encouraging of my aspirations,” said Lucy.

“The scholarship funding is life changing for me. As I come from a single parent and low-income household, I always knew I couldn’t rely on family for money if needed. The funding took a huge burden off my mum’s shoulders because I knew she was worried about not being able to provide for me, and she was worried I wouldn’t get the full university experience, but now I know I will. The money also relieves a burden from my own shoulders as I won’t need to work part time, and I will be able to focus on my studies, as well as voluntary work experience which I wish to pursue.”

The funding took a huge burden off my mum’s shoulders because I knew she was worried about not being able to provide for me.
Lucy Smith

One of the volunteering activities that Lucy has been involved in is Nightline – which offers mental health support to students.

“I learn a lot about mental health of students through volunteering for Nightline and it’s quite eye opening,” Lucy told us. “A lot of people struggle and you wouldn’t even know it. Working with Nightline has given me some really good skills that will help in the future too – learning how to talk to people, listening to people effectively and empathy skills. I definitely don’t think I would have been able to volunteer for Nightline without the scholarship.”

Lucy Smith attending the Queen's Guide Award Celebration

Scouting Ahead

As well as volunteering for Nightline, Lucy has taken the opportunity to start a Brownies unit in Nottingham. “When I came to Nottingham I joined the Scout Society because it’s something I’ve done my whole life. I’m actually on their National Executive Committee as well, which has allowed me to get involved with so many different things.

“I’m so proud of starting the Brownies unit though because it took a lot of work to set it up, along with another student. The girls can be a handful but they’re just so excited to come each week. Once I’ve left university, I’m hopeful that the university Scout Society will take it over because it’s just so rewarding and I like to think I’m leaving something behind once I’ve left.”