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.
