This year’s Words Matter Prize has been awarded to BA English Literature Student Adam Kirkbride. The prize, now in its second year, recognises outstanding academic achievement by students completing the first year of their degree.
Level Four co-ordinator Dr Fraser Mann says that:
Adam’s dedication to his studies and his participation in university life are admirable. Alongside his academic success, he is an active part of the YSJ community, a contributor to the Words Matter blog and a regular face at Literature events. Adam is clearly making the most of his time here and I am delighted we can celebrate this.
On receiving news of the award, Adam said:
This award means so much to me. My first year at York St John has been one of the best years of my life, and I’ve loved every second of it. Obviously a large part of my enjoyment comes from the course itself but that would mean nothing at all were it not for the amazing group of academics who design, manage, and deliver the course. So many events through the year have encouraged and inspired me to do my best, and I don’t think that I would have been given this honour if I hadn’t attended them.
When asked about his advice to new starters, he said:
Engage with the course as much as possible; attend the Words Matter lecture, read or write for the blog, go to the research showcase, start a study group, join the English Literature Society, book tutorials and make the most of your lecturers. I could go on forever! York St John may only be a small university, but the passion staff display is by no means small. Engaging with that passion is the only way to succeed.
Adam will receive his award during this year’s Words Matter Lecture. We would like to congratulate him on his success and wish him all the best for the rest of his degree.