Shayaan’s story – how the Alumni Scholarship is shaping his future
A first-year politics and international relations student shares how the support is helping him pursue his dreams
For Shayaan, a first-year politics and international relations student, the Alumni Scholarship Award has opened up new opportunities. Beyond the financial support, it’s given him the confidence to aim higher in his studies and future legal career, helping him build the skills to tackle global challenges and give back to the community that has supported him.
What brought you to the university?
“I grew up in West London, in a neighbourhood called Ickenham. My family comes from a working-class background, and while times have sometimes been tough, we’ve always managed to get by with resilience and determination. My parents have worked hard to provide for my sibling and me, instilling values of perseverance and ambition. Being the first in my family to attend university is an incredible milestone, and it fills me with pride to be paving this path.
“School was not always an easy experience for me. I faced challenges along the way but managed to push through and achieve decent grades despite the hurdles. Interestingly, one of my favourite subjects ended up being economics, though I must admit I disliked it initially. As time went on, I came to appreciate its relevance and how it ties into understanding the world around us, especially in terms of systems, policies and inequalities.
“When considering my career path, I envisioned myself becoming a lawyer. I chose to study international relations as I believed it would give me a deeper understanding of geopolitics, global conflicts and the frameworks that shape international law. The subject combines my interests in history, politics, and law, and I am eager to use this foundation to pursue a legal career that addresses global challenge.”
Why did you choose Nottingham?
“Choosing to study at the University of Nottingham felt like the right decision after exploring several options. Nottingham stood out for its excellent reputation in my chosen field and its vibrant campus life. The international relations course offered a broad yet rigorous curriculum, covering topics from diplomacy to global security, aligning perfectly with my goals. Additionally, the welcoming community and the opportunities for growth (both academically and personally) made it clear that Nottingham was where I belonged.”
Favourite module and campus life
“My first term at Nottingham has been an amazing experience. I’m currently living in Newark Hall which has provided a supportive and friendly environment. In my course, I’ve been learning about fascinating topics like political theory and world conflicts.
“I’ve also joined the archery club and participated in social events, which have helped me make new friends and explore my interests. Thanks to the scholarship, I’ve been able to take part in activities that broaden my horizons, such as social events, and enjoy social experiences with friends without financial stress.”
How the scholarship has helped
“Learning that I had been awarded a scholarship was an unforgettable moment. It felt like a recognition of my hard work and potential, as well as a gateway to opportunities that I might not otherwise have been able to afford. The news filled me with a sense of relief and hope for the future. It meant I could focus more on my studies and less on financial pressures, knowing that someone believed in my ability to succeed."
This scholarship is not just financial aid, it is a vote of confidence that motivates me to work even harder. It has opened doors to experiences and opportunities that I may not have otherwise had. Looking ahead, I hope to use this support to achieve my academic potential, develop skills that will help me excel in my future career, and give back to the community that has supported me.
Shayaan
First-year politics and international relations student
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