Shattock Scholar

The opportunity to study and learn is one of the greatest privileges a person can have in life. This is why I believe myself to be incredibly fortunate to have somehow found myself at Durham University. This sense of good fortune is only made stronger by the fact that I am the first person in my family to attend university. Contrary to stereotypes about working class people, the truth is that my upbringing was one made rich by an ingrained love of learning and culture of hard work within my family. Though they are not traditional ‘scholars’, the brilliant intelligence of my parents, their commitment to my education, and their sheer work ethic are why I am here and why I proudly call myself a working class scholar. I hope that you will understand that you are not helping me to ‘escape’ my family’s situation but rather to continue their work.

The Shattock Scholarship has greatly alleviated the financial strain that comes with the privilege of attending university. More than anything, it has meant that I have been able to afford my living costs without needing to work a large number of hours in a job outside of college. While I have been in paid work during approximately the last half of the academic year, I have also been able to fully enjoy everything that comes with studying a subject I love and living in a college like Chad’s without the anxiety that comes with monetary struggles. As well as this, your help has allowed me to afford to be a part of college events that I otherwise wouldn’t have been able to attend due to their cost. Winter and Summer Ball, for example, are nights that I look back on fondly. I made wonderful memories with wonderful people – it is that sort of thing you cannot put a price on.

So, truly, thank you for everything you have done for me this year. Despite the fact you have never even met me, you have granted me the opportunity to make the most of my first year at university and I believe I have done just that. From rowing in (and somehow winning) my first regatta having only been in a boat three times before to watching the northern lights from Prebends Bridge with people who would prove to be the most beautiful friends, I never want to forget a second of it. Your kindness does truly astound me. So, one more time, thank you.