Embracing a passion for sport and making the most of every opportunity at Nottingham
How the Alumni Scholarship Award helped open doors to new experiences and a fulfilling university life
This sport and exercise science first-year student is incredibly grateful for the Alumni Scholarship Award, which has made a huge difference in their university experience. With less financial stress, they have been able to dive into all aspects of campus life, joining sports clubs, exploring new activities and focusing on their studies without worry. The scholarship has truly allowed them to make the most of their time at Nottingham.
What brought you to the university?
“I have lived in Newcastle upon Tyne for my whole life, and I have always had a passion for different sports throughout my childhood. From swimming to gymnastics, to running andnetball, any form of channelling my energy through movement always provided me with a safe outlet to clear my head and feel a release of built-up emotions. My drive to learn more about the scientific and psychological aspects of sport led to me being drawn to study Sport and Exercise Science at Nottingham.
“I am the first to experience properly leaving home for prolonged periods (during term time). At first, I was a little apprehensive of this because I also have two younger siblings who I am protective of, and I worried about being so far away from my family. However, after the first week or so, my mind was put at ease as I threw myself into as many activities as I could fit into my busy timetable! I attended many sports societies' taster sessions, and I am now a member of the trampolining club, medics’ volleyball and the recreational running society.”
Why Nottingham?
“When I found out that I would be receiving this scholarship, I was over the moon! I was going through a stressful time during A-levels, and this felt like a sign to remind me that all of my hard work was going to be worth it. I immediately felt more motivated and determined to achieve my grades to unlock my offer.
“From the very first open day when I visited Nottingham, I knew this was where I wanted to spend three years doing my undergraduate degree. I applied to various universities, but Nottingham particularly stood out to me because of the luscious green campus having such a homely, welcoming atmosphere, instantly making me feel comfortable.”
Sport and Exercise student using an h/p/cosmos speed training machine
Favourite module and campus life
“My first term at Nottingham so far has been unmatched. I am staying in Dagfa House, where I have been blessed with my flatmates, who are so lovely, and we all get on really well!
“I also have fallen even more in love with my course and have particularly enjoyed exploring my natural curiosity for human anatomy. This has been truly satisfying when doing dissections of the cardiovascular system, and of the lungs too!
“The experience in the Medical School has allowed me to consider what possible jobs of interest would be available in future, for example working in a clinical setting in the NHS. I cannot wait to see what the future modules consist of!”
How the scholarship has helped
“I am so grateful for the scholarship as it has enabled me to feel much more financially secure during my studies at university.
“It has also enabled me to have the opportunity to join various societies and enhance my university experience, which I would not have had the means to fund without it.”
