TWO SIDES TO A SCHOL ARSHIP George Snaith (ECO16) recently completed his studies at UEA. He spoke to Mike Hammond (SOC77), the donor who generously funded his scholarship. he Mike Hammond Scholarship is awarded every three years to support a UEA undergraduate student from a low-income background in the School of Economics. George (pictured, left), the second student to be awarded the scholarship, studied BSc Economics in 2016. After graduating with top honours, he began an MSc at UEA and now works at an economics consultancy in London. Mike Hammond also studied economics at UEA and enjoyed a successful career in insurance. He continues his passionate involvement with UEA’s work and is now watching Deren (pictured, right), his third scholarship student, progress with his studies. George Snaith I remember when I found out that I’d been awarded the scholarship. It was quite a shock but a happy experience. It made the start of University really fantastic. Mike Hammond I’m pleased to hear that because I am funding the scholarships to give young people like yourself confidence. GS That’s definitely true for me. On the financial side, it was a big help not having to worry about how I would pay my rent. I come from a low-income background so my parents are not in a place to support me. MH I was an underprivileged kid too. My dad was in the Merchant Navy and then a ticket collector on London buses. I only made it to UEA because of free tuition. I wanted to fund scholarships for people who might otherwise think twice about coming. GS I was also encouraged by your broader involvement with my studies and the mentoring that helped me form career choices. You were always so friendly and, from the first time we met, you had good things to say and advice to offer. 03
www.uea.ac.uk/difference
I CO UL D SE E YO U WA N T E D ME TO KE E P S UCCE E DIN G LO N G A F T E R T HE S CHO L A R SHIP F IN ISHE D. George Snaith
MH For me, the support is about getting young people on the first rung of the ladder for education, work or job opportunities. I find that side of things just as rewarding as the financial support itself. It’s been a two-way street, though – it was as much to do with you reaching out. GS I feel lucky because your advice on my career is something I wouldn’t have had without the scholarship. It really helped me get the most out of my time here. Whether through work experience or your knowledge about the second and third year that helped me with what I wanted to do. You’d been at UEA too, so your experiences really helped shape my University life. MH I have made it my choice to meet my scholars, your families, and have regular mentoring calls. It’s a commitment but also a fulfilling experience to see you come to UEA and succeed in your academic life, and then go on to begin your new career. GS Thinking back to our first meeting, I remember I was very nervous and so were my parents. We met after the Scholarship Reception for a drink in the Sainsbury u
