Extra funding opens up new horizons for university students
More than 100 students have been given a helping hand, thanks to Staffordshire University’s Horizon Fund
A host of bursaries and scholarships have been awarded from the Horizon Fund thanks to the generosity of high profile supporters as well as donations from staff, alumni and members of the public.
The funding aims to relieve financial pressures for students, helping them to achieve their ambitions and make the most of their university experience.
So far this academic year, £130k has been awarded to Staffordshire University students and further funding will be on offer throughout 2023. Donors include the Bertarelli Foundation, the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, the ACH Crisford Charitable Foundation and philanthropist Ashwin Kagdadia.
Final year Forensic Investigation student Aneesa Mirza has received support from the Bertarelli Foundation Bursary throughout her studies and hopes to become a homicide detective or forensic anthropologist after graduating.
The 24-year-old from Stoke said: “I wanted to better myself and my future, so I gave myself that push to come to university. I was really scared about the financial side to start with then I realised that there are bursaries that can help people like me.
“I’ve been able to buy a printer, books and more books! Living on my own, it’s quite hard to keep up with bills so it really does help me to continue on with my university life.”
Joseph Stevens, 19, has received support from both the Horizon Fund Bursary and received the Denise Coates Foundation Bursary
He said: “It has helped a lot. Last year, I managed to buy a new computer and this year I’m going to use it for industry standard certifications which will really help when I’m applying for placements and jobs.
“If I didn’t have this help, I wouldn’t have been able to do as much at uni. It’s meant that I haven’t needed to work alongside my studies which has freed up time to focus on my course.”
Deborah Sanderson, Head of Development and Alumni Relations added: “The financial costs of coming to university, particularly travel and living expenses, can be a huge barrier to higher education for some students. However, thanks to our generous donors many of these students are able to access financial support through the Horizon Fund.
“Our range of bursaries and scholarships help students to overcome financial obstacles, embrace new opportunities and realise their full potential. Given the current cost-of-living crisis this funding is more important than ever and we are incredibly grateful for the continued support of all our donors.”
Find out how you can support the Horizon Fund and make a donation at https://giving.staffs.ac.uk/ or read more about the different bursaries and scholarships.
Amy Platts
Media Communications Officer
t: 01782 292702
m: 07799 341911
e: amy.platts@staffs.ac.uk
Staffordshire University is a Civic University which plays a leading role in improving the regional economy and enhancing quality of life in local communities. We pride ourselves on being connected to the needs of students, academic partners, business and society.
We ranked 6th for social inclusion in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022 and were in the top 15 for Student Satisfaction in the Complete University Guide 2022.
Our main city campus in Stoke-on-Trent features excellent learning and teaching facilities and good transport links. We have a Centre for Health Innovation in Stafford and our Staffordshire University London campus is committed to preparing students for careers in new and emerging tech industries.
