Graduation Year: 2022
Degree: BSc Psychology with Counselling
Scholarship: Welcome Back to Education
Why did you apply for the alumni-funded scholarship?
I was a mature student with a 5-year-old son. Both my husband and I were full-time students trying to better our employment opportunities and ultimately provide a more enriched life for our son. During the pandemic, my husband unfortunately lost his part-time job which had a lasting effect on our family. We regularly accessed the local food bank and relied on our son receiving school meals from his school.
How did you feel about receiving the scholarship?
Thinking the only option to be financially secure was to leave University and get a full-time job, I spoke with the funding team. They were so helpful and suggested I applied for the scholarship. Hearing I had received the scholarship was monumental! The difference the money made to myself, and my family was unmeasurable.
How did the scholarship help you?
We were able to food shop regularly, pay for school trips etc, and buy academic resources. There was a definite weight lifted off our shoulders once receiving the funds – for which I am so grateful for.
What are your plans for the future?
This year I am returning to YSJ onto the Doctorate in Counselling Psychology course; something I had never expected to do, and I am extremely honoured. Being that bit more financially secure in my third year (due to the scholarship) allowed me to think past the financial struggles of Higher Education and imagine an academic experience without restraints.
What would you like to say to those who contributed to your scholarship?
I am ever so thankful to the very kind donors who have positively contributed to my academic career.
Hear more from Eve when she spoke to our Cordukes Circle members and explained how donations to our alumni-funded scholarships supported her journey through York St John. Find our more about how to become a Cordukes Circle member here.