DETERMINED. CONFIDENT. HARD-WORKING.
EMMA – BIOLOGICAL AND MEDICAL SCIENCES STUDENT
“Being in sixth form and deciding to go to university, I knew I wanted to stay near Liverpool but didn’t know what I wanted to study. I completed the Liverpool Scholars programme in 2019 which immersed me into the university environment and from then on, I knew I wanted to study at the University of Liverpool. I was in the first generation of my family to study at university.
I enjoyed science at school and wanted to continue with this at university. I decided to study Biological and Medical Sciences; I love learning about the human body and what happens in disease.
Studying here has been a journey of new opportunities, self development and meeting new people. I have developed my skills immensely and am now much more confident and resilient. Because of this, I feel well equipped to go into the working world when I finish my degree”.
HARD-WORKING. DRIVEN. RESILIENT.
ZACK – COMPUTER SCIENCE STUDENT
“I grew up in a difficult living situation after my parents divorced, and I was grappling with anxiety disorder, depression, and unrecognised neurodiversity. I saw university as my chance to move away and live independently, but I always lacked the belief that I could truly succeed at higher education.
Moving to university gave me the space I needed to discover myself for the first time. It's not been a smooth ride, but I'm fortunate to have forged so many great friendships and get involved in countless enrichment opportunities. I'm lucky enough to have worked for the university in a number of roles, including as a Liverpool Advocate and a Disability Coach, developing skills whilst studying. For the first time in my life, I'm looking forward to the future and I have Liverpool and its university to thank for that”.
INSPIRED. GENUINE. POSITIVE.
ELOUISE – DENTISTRY STUDENT
“I’d always dreamt of studying Dentistry at University, but a series of personal challenges made that look almost impossible for me just a few years ago.
Aged sixteen, I left my family home. In the years that followed, I was placed in supported living, had to leave sixth form, found myself jobless and claiming benefits – and was even declared homeless at one point. Things were extremely difficult, and my aspirations of becoming a dentist seemed completely unattainable.
But I dug deep, and refused to give up.
I pursued an apprenticeship in dental nursing, working hard to gain as much experience in the field as possible as well as earn some money to support myself. My determination paid off, and I soon started to work as a treatment coordinator – but I still dreamt of going further. It wasn’t long after that I found out about the University of Liverpool’s Foundation Year; and my luck started to change.
I’m now studying Dentistry with a Foundation Year at Liverpool, and am blessed to be a recipient of the fully-funded Divock Origi scholarship – a huge help with my finances. The Widening Participation and Outreach team at the University have been a real lifeline to me; continuously supportive and helped me to overcome many challenges. It’s because of this incredible support that I decided to become a university advocate alongside my studies; talking to and assisting prospective students from similar disadvantaged backgrounds, sharing my story and promoting the services on offer at Liverpool. I’m even about to start tutoring Year 9 – 11 pupils at schools across Merseyside.
I am so grateful for the position that I am in. None of this would have been possible if I hadn’t chosen to study at the University of Liverpool”.
RESILIENT. AMBITIOUS. DYNAMIC.
KSHITISH – LAW STUDENT
“I am from Mauritius, a lovely small paradise island in the middle of the Indian Ocean and I'm fortunate to have started my academic journey in this country.
Before coming to Liverpool for my undergraduate Bachelor of Laws, I did my A-level in Science which is a completely different route to my degree. After my results, I was unsure which degree I wanted to take on and here Law was my last choice between Marine Engineering or Forensics. But I found Law to be something new and challenging to myself, and now I feel that I made the right choice.
Getting to University was a challenge, especially coming to the UK but when I looked at the opportunities, support, ranking in Law and welcoming offers at the University of Liverpool as well as the student life at Liverpool, I could sense that strong feeling and bonds that Liverpool was going to offer me, so I applied straight away and was ready to embark in this new legal career journey with the University of Liverpool.
Having completed my undergraduate degree, I can say unequivocally that Liverpool is like being in my home country. In achieving my objective which is to become a Barrister-in-Law, I recently started my Bar Training Course with the University of Law at the University of Liverpool because I wanted to stay in Liverpool after my degree. I can't see myself doing my Bar Training Course elsewhere since being here as an international student is an unreal experience, the city is vibrant, a healthy environment for students and most importantly I enjoyed myself”.
DETERMINED. RESILIENT. PROUD.
CHELSEA – PSYCHOLOGY STUDENT
“While I was growing up, I didn’t think university was an option for me. My mum is physically disabled, and my dad was her carer, so I ended up missing a lot of school. We also moved around a lot, so I didn’t think I could even get the grades.
Since moving to the area in 2014, I learned about Psychology and the numerous options available for me at the University of Liverpool. I fell in love with learning about how the mind and behaviour so I set out on securing the grades. I’m now in my final year studying Psychology and I couldn’t imagine myself anywhere else other than Liverpool”.
INDEPENDENT. DETERMINED. FUTURE-LEADER.
LUCKY – BIOLOGICAL AND MEDICAL SCIENCES STUDENT
“My story is about overcoming obstacles, big and small and embracing every challenge as an opportunity to grow. I’m an Italian Bangladeshi student. I grew up in Rome and my family moved to Liverpool in 2016, when I was in my final year of high school. This meant my qualification was incomplete and I couldn’t get admission to a sixth form to do A levels.
It was a tough time. But I eventually found my place at college where I studied for a BTEC in Applied Science. They believed in me and helped me to progress to the University of Liverpool where I’m studying a Biological and Medical Sciences degree. My experience at Liverpool has been incredible. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity and determined to achieve my goal of becoming an emerging scientist and leader”.
PASSIONATE. OPEN-MINDED. RISK-TAKER.
RIO – BUSINESS MANAGEMENT WITH A YEAR IN INDUSTRY STUDENT
“I come from a footballing background. From the age of 13 – 16, I was signed at Everton academy, before moving to Nottingham Forest. But I wasn’t happy there. I felt homesick, a bit lonely and I realised that I could look for passions outside football.
I decided to leave and go to college to do my A levels. I did quite well. But I didn’t know what I wanted to study at university. Whether my strengths would lie in business management or something more sport related. I chose to challenge myself and try something new. And that’s why I’m here now. I’m finding my path in life and studying to build a successful future”.
FOSTERED. FIGHTER. RESILIENT. HIGH-ACHIEVER.
AMY – PSYCHOLOGY PHD STUDENT
“I grew up in foster care. It was a very difficult time. I didn’t go to primary school, and I was occasionally homeless. I remember being told you’re not going to be able to go to university. And I remember thinking ‘No, no, no! I am!’
I didn’t do as well as I wanted to at college. But I managed to get a place at the University of Liverpool through clearing and the widening participation team helped me to get where I am today. The journey has been a bit rocky at times. People haven’t always believed in me. But as soon as I came to Liverpool, I was treated as a person, not a number. And made to feel I could achieve”.
NETWORKER. FORWARD-THINKER. LEADER.
AMRUTHA – INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS STUDENT
"I always dreamed of studying in the UK. When I realised a few years ago that I was passionate about Business and Management – having already completed my bachelor’s degree in Engineering in my home country – I saw the opportunity to make my dreams a reality.
I applied to study International Business at the University of Liverpool. It’s the perfect choice for me, because it has an excellent curriculum and state-of-the-art facilities. I knew that studying overseas would expand my knowledge, but I’ve been pleased to discover how much it will also broaden my network. The opportunity to study as part of a diverse cohort is a dream-come-true for a networking nerd like me.
My experiences at the University of Liverpool are helping to shape me as a future leader, ready to influence change in society as part of my career. who knows, maybe I’ll even get to meet Paul McCartney!"
RESILIENT. DETERMINED. HARD-WORKER.
JOSH – AEROSPACE ENGINEERING STUDENT
"I lost my Mum when I was 15, so I come from a single-parent family. I’m from central Bedfordshire, which is about thirty minutes north of London.
When it came to looking at my options for university, I knew two things for sure: I wanted to study Aerospace Engineering, and I didn’t want to be based in the South East as the cost of living is high. I researched league tables and discovered that the University of Liverpool is one of the best institutions for Aerospace Engineering. I also learned that it was a Russell Group institution – something which I knew was prestigious from conversations at sixth form. Watching some YouTube videos from current students sealed the deal for me and I decided to make it my firm choice.
Since being here, I’ve thrown myself into everything the University and city have to offer – advice I received from the president of the Engineering Society, of which I’m a member. I’m now working as a senior Liverpool Advocate. I help to positively shape the lives of young people across Merseyside, while building an inclusive community with my colleagues".
DILIGENT. PROACTIVE. THRIVING.
CAMILLE – PHYSIOTHERAPY STUDENT
“If you asked me a few years ago what I’d be doing today, the answer would be very different to what I’m up to now.
I’d always intended to study law at university, because I felt it was a stable profession and one that I’d enjoy. This changed when I attended a Higher Education Fair and discovered physiotherapy as a career option. I was attracted to the physical and social elements of the field, so I decided it was a path worth exploring.
I switched my focus away from the legal career I’d previously been planning for and started to research the best place to study my newly chosen subject. Part of this involved looking at University rankings and league tables. The University of Liverpool ranked 4th in the UK for physiotherapy and the close links with excellent healthcare facilities really appealed to me. So, I applied! I met the entry requirements and now here I am.
Liverpool is a vibrant city and I love living here. I enjoy the contrast of fun nights out in the city centre, to peaceful weekends in the beautiful Sefton Park. I can’t imagine doing my undergraduate degree anywhere else”.
CHARISMATIC. INTUITIVE. AMBITIOUS.
Andreea - Law LLB Student
"I’m from Romania, but moved to Cyprus when I was 9 years old. I lived there for 6 years, before moving to Liverpool in 2016. I was often intimidated by the prospect of going to university, because nobody in my family had gone onto higher education before. It was a new world, but I decided it was the right path for me.
As a student that has lived in 3 different countries, remaining in Liverpool after finishing my A-Levels was a no-brainer! The sense of belonging and community is so much stronger than I’ve experienced in other places. I truly believe that all of the opportunities that the University has offered me over the years will propel me into an exciting career. My ultimate goal is to become a judge. I’m so happy I chose to stay in the city and study here".
FOCUSED. ADVENTURER. OPEN-MINDED.
SUXIANG - XJTLU 2+2 STUDENT.
"I grew up in China, where academic study was my main focus. While studying at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, I decided I wanted to experience life in a new place with a more diverse culture. So, I decided to transfer to their partner institution, the University of Liverpool.
It was a fantastic decision. The University has a rich offering of extracurricular activities, excellent learning environments, knowledgeable tutors and friendly fellow students. I also love Liverpool's sense of inclusivity, and as a woman I feel safe and respected here.
Moving to a different country can be a daunting experience, but I quickly adjusted to my new university, so the unfamiliar environment and homesickness are no longer a problem. I feel very fulfilled and happy here. I’m going to make the most of my time at Liverpool and become a better version of myself".
PASSIONATE. RESOLUTE. AMBITIOUS.
KEVIN - DATA SCIENCE STUDENT
“My journey to studying at the University of Liverpool wasn’t a straightforward one.
Prior to my studies I’d been building a career in the IT industry, working as a Senior Software Engineer for three years. Although this job offered frequent promotions and raises, I felt like I wasn’t being challenged enough. My interest in Data Science kindled a fire within me and I ultimately decided to pursue further study in a whole new domain.
I fell in love with Liverpool while looking for the best universities here in the UK. Sadly, I got into a very serious accident midway through the admission process and my plans were put on hold. However, I was still determined to make it and I was able to come to the University the following year.
Little did I know that it was going to totally change my life! I fell in love with my course and the University. So far, I’ve had an incredible experience here. I’ve also been able to further explore my content creation hobby. Now, my goal is to become a Data Scientist and start a content creation page”.
PROUD. GO-GETTER. ADVOCATE.
SOPHIE – HISTORY AND POLITICS STUDENT
I grew up in Liverpool and attended a comprehensive school with a fairly low progression into Higher Education. Nobody in my family had ever been to university before, so my first conversations about it happened with the Widening Participation team here at Liverpool during school visits. Chatting with them made me feel welcomed and gave me the confidence to apply.
I ultimately decided to go to Queen Mary, University of London, but after two months, I realised it wasn’t the right place for me. I loved my History and Politics course, so I decided to suspend my studies and reapply to the University of Liverpool.
Studying at a top university with good graduate prospects was really important to me, but I’m also a very outgoing person. I really wanted to meet new people and experience the social side of university life. Liverpool is the perfect place for that, because it’s one of the friendliest cities in the world. There’s a big emphasis on student wellbeing here, which makes me feel supported. I’ve also had the opportunity to develop a range of interpersonal skills by working with the Widening Participation and Recruitment teams.
Although I didn’t initially apply here, as I near the end of my degree, I look back with only fond memories of my time at Liverpool! I’m so glad I chose to study here".
SUCCESSFUL. CONFIDENT. SUPPORTED.
GEORGIE - MARKETING WITH A YEAR IN INDUSTRY STUDENT
“Liverpool is far away from my hometown, so coming to study and live here pushed me out of my comfort zone. Moving to a new city was hard, because I usually dislike change. However, a couple of years later, those worries are all gone. Choosing the University of Liverpool has truly been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and I now think change is exciting!
I’m thrilled to say that during my time here, I’ve excelled academically. I’ve also become much more confident and independent.
The support that I receive from the University has helped me to find and create opportunities for myself that I’ve always aspired to, but never thought I could actually push myself to achieve. As I look forward to my upcoming placement year, I hope to see my academic endeavours and future career prospects continue to flourish”.
UNDERDOG. DETERMINED. LIFE-CHANGER.
JASMIN – LAW STUDENT
"I’m from a low income, single parent family in Ireland. Age 18 I’d lost a friend. I was helping to support my family. And I was suffering with my mental health. I didn’t get the grades I hoped for in my A levels. But I was determined to go to university. So, I went back to college and got the UCAS points I needed for Liverpool.
Since arriving here, I’ve thrown myself into everything. I’m president of the Help the Homeless Society. I’ve travelled on my own. I’m supporting myself as a waitress while maintaining my 2:1 grade. I know I now have the means to escape the poverty cycle and help my family in the future. I’ll be graduating a completely different, confident, happy, determined person”.
ACADEMIC. CONFIDENT. HIGH-FLIER.
JOEL – AEROSPACE ENGINEERING STUDENT
“I’ve always been a very academic student and worked hard. I’ve had a few setbacks along the way, but I’ve never doubted myself. I knew I wanted to aim high. I knew I wanted to study Aerospace Engineering. I knew I was really interested in Pilot Studies too. And, as the University of Liverpool is one of the only universities to offer Pilot Studies alongside Aerospace Engineering, I set my sights on studying here.
My self-belief paid off. I fell in love with the course. I fell in love with the university. And I fell I love with the city and all the amazing prospects that now lie ahead for me”.
RISK-TAKER. RESILIENT. HIGH-ACHIEVER.
FARHANA – FINAL YEAR DENTAL STUDENT
“I studied pharmacology in my hometown of Cardiff and Dentistry was always in the back of my mind as a future career path. So, in my final year of pharmacology, I thought I'd give it a shot and apply. It was outside of my comfort zone. There are only a limited number of dental schools that take on graduates (four to be precise!) So, I felt I was taking a great risk applying to UoL, considering how competitive it would be to gain a place. Moving away from my hometown was also quite daunting.
After securing my place, I found it difficult to find work experience. I created a whole excel spreadsheet to work through. I got a lot of rejections, but I kept on going. I remained resilient. And I kept believing that eventually someone would give me a break. I think it was the 96th or 99th place that offered me work experience. That was the gateway I needed to get me to where I am now”.
STRONG. DRIVEN. AMBITIOUS. MUM.
MELISSA – FRENCH AND CHINESE STUDENT
“I was born and raised in Liverpool. I didn’t initially get the grades I wanted to study at UoL, so I spent a year at another local university. But Liverpool was where my heart was. So, I left university and started a college course to get the grades I needed. Then I found out I was pregnant!
At 35 weeks pregnant, I saw an advert for the University of Liverpool’s ‘Go Higher’ Diploma programme. I applied and must have shocked the tutor when I waddled into my interview. I started the course when my baby was three months old. I had a great support network, got really high grades, and went on to study what I do now. Now I’m in my second year and my baby is two and a half”.
HARD WORKER. RESILIENT. GO-GETTER.
HANNAH – FINAL YEAR ENGLISH LITERATURE STUDENT
“I didn’t do well in my GCSE’s. Partly, I didn’t apply myself as much as I could, but also I wasn’t diagnosed with Dyspraxia until I was 18 so I had been struggling with this unsupported. So throughout my schooling, I was told university was unattainable for me. I proved them wrong.
I was ecstatic when I received my place at Liverpool. I felt empowered and motivated. Since being here I’ve rediscovered my love of writing and achieved many proud moments. The University of Liverpool is helping me to push myself and learn from my failures. I didn’t start off as a model student, but I’m a go-getter. I am always looking for ways to improve myself”.
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