The Student Success Endowment: Kirsty

I am now coming to the end of the first semester for the final year of my bachelor's degree of Biological Sciences. I feel as though this year has allowed me to flourish in ways that I have never experienced before, my depression and anxiety haven’t restricted me as much which allowed me to explore new hobbies. With the constant increase in financial pressures and the uptake of coursework and assignments, the Student Success Endowment (SSE) has been more important than ever in order for me to take part in these activities.

Living with a permanently disabled parent as a child, it was difficult to get the same experiences that other children did, whether that be going to the beach or spending a day at an amusement park. Those were experiences I never had. Along with having both parents who couldn't work for most of my childhood, there were never any funds to go towards fun activities that my friends did, so growing up I have always felt a bit isolated.

With the funding from the SSE, the financial burden lessened, and I have been able to put aside my anxiety and focus on the university experience that I have always wanted. From being able to join the NTU Conservation Society and finally experience practical work to help the environment, to funding days out with my friends, I finally feel like I am not alone in my journey.

I already have my Masters course decided and will be delighted to continue my journey here at NTU in MSc Endangered Species Recovery and Conservation at Brackenhurst. In the future, my degree will help me to pursue my love of animals and helping to protect endangered species as well as their habitats for a career by moving into the field of conservation.

Since last year, I have also started to learn to make jewellery and been able to redevelop my sewing skills, something I haven’t picked up since GCSE textiles. I even made my own Halloween costume this year and enjoyed the day more than ever due to this. These creative activities wouldn't have been possible without the support of the SSE which has allowed me to purchase the necessary fabric and equipment I needed to continue my hobbies.

I feel as though I have stepped into a better version of myself this year, something that has undeniably been supported by the SSE. It has helped me to embrace new hobbies, and I have found so much joy from being able to create new crafts and pieces that I will always be proud of.

I continue to thank anyone that has donated to the Student Success Endowment and anyone that is thinking of doing so. My university experience wouldn’t be half of what it is today without the help of the SSE.