Scholarships at UEA

UEA SCHOLARSHIPS

Give a student a life-changing scholarship.

£1m Scholarships annual fundraising target

Chloe Cook celebrates her achievements on graduation day.

THE DIFFERENCE OF A SCHOLARSHIP

I remember first coming to university. Everyone said, ‘enjoy it, it’ll be over faster than you know.’ And now, having completed my degree, they were right! Three years haven’t even felt like one, and it’s amazing to think of everything that I’ve experienced.

I can’t begin to describe the immense appreciation I feel for being blessed with such a brilliant opportunity. My undergraduate degree has been the best experience of my life.

I’ve been lucky enough to visit Ireland and Swaziland on field trips, and have learnt a huge array of survey skills alongside interesting and engaging theory. Handing in my dissertation was my proudest achievement and truly represents the accumulation of three years of skills gained at UEA.

Outside of my course, I’ve made friends for life and discovered a city and county

that I love – and hope to remain in for many years post-graduation!

I come from a working-class background and I am the first member of my family to go to university. My scholarship gave my mum a little peace of mind, as she was not able to offer me any financial help. It made the transition of me moving out easier for all of us.

When I got the chance to meet Dwayne Stallings, I told him that I hoped he understood just how grateful and appreciative I am for this opportunity.

My overwhelmingly positive experience here pushed me to stay on. I have been accepted onto the MSc Applied Ecology and Conservation – and I recently discovered I have been awarded a Difference Postgraduate Scholarship. My scholarship was a life-changing opportunity. Thank you so very much to everyone who is considering supporting future students at UEA.

Chloe Cook (BIO16) was awarded the Dwayne Stallings Scholarship to study BSc Ecology at UEA.

GIVE SUPPORT WHERE IT’S NEEDED

I wasn’t able to go to university. I remember my dad saying, ‘your place is at home with your mother’. So Chloe’s achievements make me extremely proud.

The scholarship meant such a lot to us as a family. It’s not that I didn’t want to support my daughters financially, I just couldn’t. We barely make ends meet.

Seeing me struggle has given Chloe a drive. This was her once-in-a-lifetime chance, and she has grabbed it with both hands. She’s very focused and committed.

With this support, my daughter has been able to participate fully and reach her potential. Chloe wouldn’t have got the best degree she was capable of without it. It’s lifted all my worries.

Seeing her receive a First on graduation day along with an award for coming top on her course was wonderful and, naturally, very emotional.

She’s now studying for her Master’s thanks to a second scholarship, which was awarded in recognition of her outstanding academic success. Chloe is so very thankful. We all are.

Debbie Cook watched her daughter soar at university. She reflects on the difference Chloe’s scholarship made.

Debbie Cook (left) and her daughter, Chloe (right), on the shore of UEA Broad.

A TRULY FULFILLING THING TO DO

Dwayne

Stallings’s (EAS97) generous

gift brought Chloe to UEA. His belief is that if you’re in a position to help, you should help.

ollowing his professional basketball career, Dwayne Stallings now works in the financial services industry. He attended UEA as a visiting student in 1997. Chloe Cook is the recipient of his second scholarship.

“There’s nothing too deep and philosophical about it – there are capable, brilliant and bright young people out there who need financial support to experience a university education.

“There’s so much inequality in the world, especially in education. We can help bridge that gap.

“I know the power of education, so it’s completely natural to give to a university that I came to and have fond memories of. My time here gave me so much and funding these scholarships makes me feel good.

“I once needed help myself. What I hope to achieve is giving someone in a similar situation a helping hand to experience all that education offers beyond just sitting in a classroom – pursuing opportunities,

meeting new people and getting into the job market.

“Helping someone like Chloe is an easy decision to make. She took the bull by the horns and had to fight for what she wanted. I respect that, and I see myself in her in that way.

“To anyone thinking of funding a scholarship at UEA, I’d say that if it’s close to your heart and you have the ability to do so, absolutely do it. We should all help the things that are close to us.

“UEA is a top-notch university – it’s a leader in many areas and always moving forward. This place was a major part of my life and giving back is very fulfilling.”

GIVING BACK IS SIMPLY SOMETHING THAT WE SHOULD ALL DO.

GIFTED STUDENTS ARE MISSING OUT

Scholarships bring talented students to UEA who may not otherwise be able to attend. But for every student who wins a UEA scholarship, 12 more must go without.

he demand and competition for a life-changing scholarship is great. But a lack of funding means that so many scholarship applicants are unable to receive this support. Some will never make it to university at all, others may face enormous debt or need to hold down jobs alongside their studies to make ends meet – all distractions from fulfilling their true potential.

Will you help raise £1 million per year so that we can welcome more talented students to UEA?

A GROWING BURDEN OF COST

According to a recent UK Government report from the Department for Education, the average cost of attending university has now reached £19,922 per year for full-time students.

That figure – which means an undergraduate student is expected

to find almost £60,000 across the length of their course – includes tuition fees, living costs, travel, housing and other course costs.

Some students rely on support from their families. Others must work alongside their studies. But, for many, it simply would not be possible to achieve their potential without additional help.

PLEASE HELP

US ACCEPT

MORE TALENTED STUDENTS IN NEED OF FINANCIAL HELP.

David Ellis, Director of Development, UEA

Graduation is an opportunity for students to celebrate their hard work and achievement.

CHANGING THE WORLD DOESN’T COST THE EARTH

What are you studying in your PhD?

I am part of the team behind UEA’s prostate cancer research. We’re developing exciting new tests for the disease, led by pioneering discoveries and cutting-edge mathematics.

We’ve now moved on to the next phase of development for our PUR urine test, which could revolutionise prostate cancer diagnosis. Our work could affect thousands and won’t cost the earth.

It has been an amazing experience. It’s so rewarding to see that our research has a real-world impact for patients.

What has the scholarship meant to you?

Everything in research is so much harder when you’re short of funding, and it’s often very tough to get. It has been such a relief to just focus on my work without constantly worrying about money.

What have been your highlights?

Starting my PhD, I never would have expected to end up on the evening news or see my photo in the paper.

THANK YOU TO MY 500 INDIVIDUAL DONORS.

Shea O’Connell (MED17) was awarded the Andy Ripley Scholarship to complete a PhD in Clinical Data Science.

I’ve presented my work abroad, winning a few prizes in the process. I have published some exciting research and been lucky enough to be invited to several events as a speaker to talk to the wider public about our work.

Who funded your scholarship?

More than 500 people! I’ve had the chance to meet and chat with some of my donors, which is really nice. UEA looks after its donors, and I have lots of opportunities to say thank you. It’s humbling to know that all of these people wanted to give money and make a difference.

Do you have a message for potential supporters?

I think scholarships provide great bang for your buck. We can make quite a lot of impact from a single donation. Most of my PhD research doesn’t cost a huge amount, I’m just writing code on a computer. But what the funding has also made possible is for me to attend conferences to present my work. It’s helping to make the research stronger and allows me to develop research skills beyond the lab.

What’s next for you?

Hopefully I’ll move to industry. I want to make a real difference with the experience I’ve gained here. I’m hoping to work for a company running lots of trials, and with access to thousands of patients.

I’d like to use data to do good in the world, improve people’s medical care or even make a major discovery!

Shea O’Connell’s PhD work could help transform the lives of men with prostate cancer.

A REAL HONOUR AND A BOOST

Elizabeth Macneal (LDC16) received the Malcolm Bradbury Memorial Scholarship for an MA in Creative Writing (Prose Fiction).

Following the publication of her novels

The Doll Factory and Circus of Wonders, Elizabeth has generously decided to fund her own scholarship at UEA.

How was your life changed by coming to UEA?

The simple answer is that the MA was utterly pivotal to my writing.

Over the year, I began to understand writing as a careful craft, that power which a single word could have in a sentence, and how to control pace, character and plot. I also met a fantastic group of other writers with whom I still share work.

Why did you choose UEA?

It was a major decision to take a year out of work. I decided that, if I was going to do it, then I wanted to study at the university with the best reputation for creative writing. I knew this would attract other students who loved writing, reading and words as much as I did, and I was eager to experiment and improve alongside them.

What would you say to those who funded your scholarship?

The scholarship made a huge difference to me and enabled me to do the course. It was a real honour and a boost to carry a scholarship bearing the name of Malcolm Bradbury, the co-founder of the Creative Writing programme at the University. Without it, I don’t believe I could have developed the skills to write the book I did, or at least not for several years. I had the chance to meet Malcolm Bradbury’s sons, who were so warm and generous. It meant a lot to be able to thank them in person.

Why were you inspired to fund the new Bourne Scholarship?

I am so proud that I’ve had a book published and can now give someone else the same opportunity I received –someone with the hunger to make it as a writer, who just needs that support to get there. I believe that the writing industry needs more diverse voices. Scholarships are key to achieving this.

Elizabeth Macneal’s debut novel The Doll Factory won the Caledonia Novel Award and was translated into 29 languages. © Mat Smith Photography

OPENING DOORS FOR TALENT

How Medical Aspirations Scholarships are increasing diversity in the medical profession.

The Medical Aspirations Programme was founded on the vision of one incredibly generous donor, David Tibble, to support aspiring medics in less privileged areas of East Anglia to pursue a degree in medicine.

Although many bright individuals have the right qualifications, knowing how to get into medicine can be a real barrier. Which is why the programme offers skills sessions, mentoring and work experience placements, as well as the chance to receive a scholarship to study medicine at UEA.

Ten years on since the creation of the programme, UEA has welcomed its 32nd Medical Aspirations scholar to study Medicine thanks to David’s support. David Tibble said the scheme had been truly rewarding:

“Seeing young lives transformed makes me incredibly proud and the medical profession will be greatly enriched by these bright individuals from diverse backgrounds. To know these scholars could go on to transform further lives through their careers—or even as scholarship supporters—is a real privilege.”

Medical Aspirations Scholars 2019 - 20.

SUPPORTING DIVERSE VOICES

Author Louise Doughty studied on the world-class MA in Creative Writing at UEA, which she said turned her into a novelist. Now Louise wants to give others the opportunity to discover their voices through the UEA Crowdfunded Writers’ Scholarship.

“I wanted to see under-represented voices championed in writing, which is why I led the crowdfunding campaign to create a new scholarship for writers who identify as Black, Asian and minority ethnic’ writers.” said Louise. “It has been inspiring to see incredibly talented authors emerge thanks to this scholarship.”

TWO NORWICH INSTITUTIONS

To celebrate 50 years of creative writing at UEA and 250 years of the Jarrold company, the John Jarrold Scholarship in Creative Writing (Prose Fiction) is supporting a postgraduate student from East Anglia to study for an MA in Creative Writing (Prose Fiction).

Caroline Jarrold, Secretary and Trustee of the John Jarrold Trust, said, “We’ve long had an association with the University and wanted to mark our joint anniversaries. Hopefully our contribution will help a student feel financially secure and make the most of university life.”

YOU HAVE MADE THE SINGLE GREATEST CONTRIBUTION TO ENABLING ME TO BECOME A DOCTOR.

IT HAS BEEN A HUGE WEIGHT OFF MY MIND FINANCIALLY.

I AM SO THANKFUL TO HAVE BEEN GIVEN THIS OPPORTUNITY.

Marcus Dyer, Medical Aspirations Scholar

Catherine Mitchell, John Jarrold Scholar

Shereen Jackson, UEA Crowdfunded Writers’ Scholar

At UEA, we are privileged to help guide diverse, talented students through their degrees.

JOIN A PROUD TRADITION AT UEA

Professor David Richardson extends his thanks and encouragement to anybody considering supporting scholarships at UEA.

In my role as ViceChancellor of the University of East Anglia, the experience of our students is my top priority. Watching scholarship students thrive and blossom during their time with us continues to be my delight and privilege.

And I have seen first-hand the difference made by welcoming scholarship students to the University. Put simply, the wider the range of backgrounds we have among our ranks, the richer the experience will be for everyone.

Our tradition of scholarships at UEA is a source of great pride to me. Because of the generous individuals who have been inspired to change students’ lives, we have welcomed an amazing 624 donor-funded scholarship students to UEA since 2009, thanks to gifts worth a staggering £3.6 million.

These gifts go further than you might think – the benefits to our graduates, such as skills, expertise and a sense of community – will stay with them for their entire lives. It’s why many of our alumni carry such fond memories of UEA and speak so warmly about their time here.

You will experience that enriching journey for yourself – learning about your scholar when they first arrive at UEA, receiving regular correspondence during their studies, meeting them and their family at an exclusive reception and seeing the rewarding moment of their graduation.

If you’d like to find out more about scholarships, I encourage you to speak to the Development Office who would be pleased to answer any questions and discuss your ideas.

Thank you so very much for considering a gift to bring talented students to UEA.

INVESTING IN TOMORROW

Television broadcaster, journalist and philanthropist Jake Humphrey explains why he and his wife Harriet decided to fund scholarships at UEA.

I wasn’t the best when it came to education, but was lucky enough to have the support and backing of some amazing industry leaders. My entire career is built on people I never met who took a chance on me.

A lot of young people might be put off a career in media or further education because they can’t afford it or don’t think they have the skills.

There is incredible talent out there that won’t get the right opportunities. That’s why I’m saying to students, ‘If you want a degree in media but can’t afford it, let me pay.’ I see it as an investment in the young talent of tomorrow.

It was emotional to speak to Owen, the first of many scholars I’ll fund, and hear how grateful he was. He’s grabbing the opportunity with both hands! He told me that hearing my story helped him realise what can be achieved with hard work and endeavour. It’s clear the scholarship means such a lot to him.

University isn’t the only way to secure a career in this industry but, hopefully, helping with the costs of attending will make it an option. I’m also offering work placements at my TV production company based in London.

I’ve been given amazing support in my career. Now it’s my turn.

I’M TOTALLY GRATEFUL FOR THIS OPPORTUNITY. I’M GOING TO MAKE THE MOST OF IT AND TRY TO SUCCEED.

Owen Turner (AMA19), recipient of the Jake Humphrey Scholarship

Jake Humphrey is helping to fund a new generation of talent in media.

© Oliver Rosser

SCHOLARSHIPS AT UEA

There are many ways you could choose to make a difference with scholarships, whether you are able to cover some or all of the costs of study.

FULL SCHOLARSHIPS

The change you want to see – many of our donors choose to create and fund a brand-new scholarship based on their passions and motivations.

We are delighted to offer scholarships funded by philanthropists including UEA alumni, friends of the University, trusts and foundations, sports clubs and businesses.

SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMMES

Increase your impact – fund a wider programme of scholarships, and you’ll make a far-reaching difference. The Medical Aspirations Scholarships, for example, have seen one extraordinary supporter become a game-changer for more than 30 students.

UEA DIFFERENCE SCHOLARSHIPS

A force for good – generous alumni of all backgrounds are joining together to fund undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships through one-off gifts and monthly donations.

And the more people who give, the more scholarship places we can offer.

HELP GIVE STUDENTS A LIFE-CHANGING SCHOLARSHIP

Will you offer those dreaming of attending university an opportunity to achieve to their fullest potential?

Please give your support today and help bring the most talented students to be part of our academic community at UEA.

Get in touch to start the conversation overleaf u

FIND OUT MORE

If you would like to find out more about how you can support scholarships at UEA, please get in touch with the Development Office.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

When you become part of our thriving philanthropic community, we make sure you’re always kept up to date about the impact of your gift. You’ll receive regular updates from your scholarship student, the opportunity to meet them in person and invitations to UEA events of interest. We look forward to welcoming you.

£1m Scholarships annual fundraising target

MAKING A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE AT UEA

Scholarships at UEA are part of The Difference Campaign, the University’s fundraising campaign to create pioneering change in the world.

We are using the power of philanthropy to fund and further the University’s groundbreaking work – adding global reach and significance. Together with our donors, we are tackling the world’s greatest challenges and transforming lives.

MAKE A GIFT TODAY

If you would like to support Scholarships at UEA, please contact the Development Office:

Telephone: +44 (0)1603 592 945

Email: giving@uea.ac.uk

Development Office

University of East Anglia

Norwich Research Park

Norwich

NR4 7TJ

Donate online at: www.uea.ac.uk/difference

Cover image: Scholarship students at UEA reflecting on their transformative experiences.

UEA is an exempt charity: HMRC reference number XN423