Starting university is a huge step, especially when it’s your first time living away from home. For many students, financial concerns can add extra stress to an already big transition. That’s where the Faculty of Science Alumni Scholarship Awards come in, helping students focus on their studies and make the most of their time at university.
A first-year mathematics student shares their journey – from growing up in a close-knit family to finding independence at university, embracing new experiences, and how this scholarship has made a real difference along the way.
What brought you to the university?
“I have lived in Nottingham my whole life, in a town called Eastwood. Nottingham and its history means a lot to me and my family, particularly the mining background. I live with my mum and my sister, however for my first year of university I wanted to explore my independence, so I now reside in Rutland Hall on the main campus. As a family, we are incredibly close, and we all do what we can to help each other. Living away has been hard however, but I am loving everything to do with university so far!
“I have loved maths for as long as I can remember. As a child, instead of reading a book to help me sleep, I used to sit and do my times tables up to my 19s, and write out as many combinations of numbers as I could think of. If you ever asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, it was always to be a maths teacher. Since reaching A level and degree-level maths, I now aspire to stay in education as long as possible, as I love it so much. I hope to do a master’s and a PhD and hopefully stay as an academic.”
Why did you choose Nottingham?
“Despite looking at other universities, Nottingham stood out to me for so many reasons, and not only because it is close to home. Mum used to take us to Highfields as children to play and have a walk around the lake, so I was familiar with that side of campus. I think the scenery is lovely, and I love all the green space.
“The accommodation was affordable, as this was something I was very concerned about before moving to university. I also thought the disability support was outstanding here compared to other universities I looked at, as I have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD and anxiety since I was a child. I have struggled with my mental health throughout my life, but here I feel safe to talk and very supported by the team.”
Maths lecture
Campus life
“University has opened up so many more opportunities than I ever thought there would be. I am part of the archery society, which is something I have wanted to do for years now; however, we have not been able to afford the costs of the clubs near me. With the support offered, I have now been able to cover the costs of the mandatory beginner's course and the costs of the membership. I love archery so much, and I look forward to going every week.
“One of the things that also meant a lot to me whilst being at university was carrying on my volunteering roles. I have been a leader in Brownies and Cubs since I was 12, and part of the organisation since the age of four. I love volunteering so much, and this has been the highlight of my week ever since starting. I am part of the scout and guide society, and I have met so many people who share similar interests to me, as we get together weekly to do badges and activities and generally have a good time.”
How the scholarship has helped
“Growing up with a single mum has taken a toll on our family, and I wasn’t sure if living away would be a feasible option for me. However, with the support of the scholarship, I am now able to explore my independence in a safe environment and feel confident to spend my time doing things I enjoy, such as volunteering, instead of finding a part-time job."
Because of my autism, I find many part-time jobs very stressful and overwhelming, so I am incredibly grateful that I no longer have to go through that, and I can fully dedicate my time to my degree, which I find very enjoyable. My mental health was a massive concern before moving in, however, I can confidently say I feel more like me than I have in a long time.
First-year mathematics student
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