A MATURE student from Evesham has been recognised by the University of Worcester for her outstanding academic achievements.
Kristina Davis was awarded with a £1,000 scholarship for outstanding academic achievement throughout the 2019/20 academic year, earned despite the unprecedented circumstances created by the pandemic.
“I have been dreaming for many years to be here, studying at the University of Worcester,” said the 38-year-old, who is currently in the second year of a joint degree in Graphic Design and Illustration.
“Dreams do come true, you just need to hold on to them. Although I am already happy that my dream came true, now I’m twice as happy to achieve an Academic Scholarship. Hard work has paid off.”
She plans to spend the money on her 10-year-old son, who she said had been, and continued to be, very supportive of her studies and had given her advice on her work.
Kristina, a former Warwickshire College pupil, first came to see the University of Worcester for an open day in 2012, but was not in a position to start a course then with her young son to look after. “I loved the place and everything about it,” she said and it was an ambition to study there she held onto over the years.
But studying during a pandemic was not something she had anticipated in her plans.
She said: “During the lockdown tutors were extremely helpful, you could ask anything at any time and you would get support. The sad thing was not being able to come to university, to see your classmates, have a chat with your tutor.”
Keen to do what she could to help others, during the first lockdown Kristina looked after two older couples, doing their shopping and getting their medication as their family members were unable to.
University of Worcester deputy vice chancellor and provost, professor Sarah Greer, said: “We are very proud of each and every student who earned an Academic Scholarship or prize this year, particularly given the unprecedented circumstances of the last year.
“Despite the challenges they have been faced with during the pandemic, these students have proved their commitment to their studies, and we hope this award will inspire them to further academic success.
“These scholarships and prizes will demonstrate to potential employers the outstanding achievements of our students, as well as providing welcome practical financial support and encouragement for the recipients.
“The scholarships and prizes are supported by generous philanthropists, including the University’s distinguished Honorary Fellows, local employers, and many successful graduates of the University. We are so grateful to all our benefactors, whose generosity makes such a difference to the lives of our students.”
