Hardship Funding supports Habeeba's University Journey
My
name is Habeeba, and I’d like to tell you a bit about myself. I study Law at
Northumbria University and I have dreams of becoming a solicitor after I
graduate. I’m the secretary of two university societies and I do voluntary work
in the local community. My life is busy, but that’s the way I like it. I love being a student and want to make the
most of every opportunity that comes my way. If you met me today, you might not
guess that there was a time when it looked like I might not make it to
university at all. I grew up in the North East of England, the area of the
country with the lowest rate of participation in Higher Education. For many young people like me, university
isn’t an option financially, no matter how bright they are.
I was
an all-rounder at school, giving everything a try. From Art to Maths, I enjoyed
almost every subject on offer, but my exam results didn’t always reflect what I
was capable of. But coming to university and focusing on one subject that I’m
truly passionate about has really enabled me to thrive.
One of
the key turning points for me was hearing about Northumbria’s NU Entry
programme. I discovered that, by working with pupils in some of the North East’s
most challenging schools, the NU Entry team helps talented young people make it
to university – despite the obstacles that might stand in the way. The team
visited my school and helped us to develop personal statements for university
applications, then, for the second part of the programme, I visited the
Northumbria University campus and worked in a group to create and deliver a
presentation. This experience gave me the final push I needed to pursue my
dreams and really helped to raise my aspirations. So much so, that I’ve been
inspired to become an online mentor for NU Entry; it feels great to be able to
help people overcome concerns they have about making the transition to
University. I’m also an outreach volunteer for the University and I do a lot of
work with primary school children to raise their aspirations and help them to
see university as part of their future. At the end of my last session all 12
children in my group said they wanted to come to Northumbria one day, which was
so rewarding!
I come
from a low-income household so I have also received financial support during my
time as a student. This has enabled me to focus on my studies and fully
participate in all the fantastic opportunities university has to offer. I feel
so excited about my future, knowing that I’ll be leaving university having
developed valuable skills that will help me secure a job when I graduate.
I know
how important financial support can be, not just in easing financial concerns
but also in giving students the confidence that someone, somewhere believes
that they can achieve their dreams. With the support of its alumni community Northumbria can help
more people like me strive for a better future. Every donation, however small,
really does mean the world to students like me.
