Brynn Birks

“Hard Work Pays Off…Literally!”: Kent Student Celebrates £1,000 Scholarship Win 

A student from Kent says winning a prestigious Academic Scholarship shows hard work pays off; literally! 

Brynn Birks, 22 and from Ramsgate, has been awarded a £1,000 prize by the University of Worcester, where he’s studying Creative Writing and Illustration, for academic excellence in the second year of his course. 

“This award means a lot to me,” he said. “It brings a sense of relief because it alleviates financial pressure. My family were happy for me because they knew how hard I’d been working, and it feels rewarding to have that effort pay off literally!” 

Brynn continued: “My biggest success at university has been the friendships I’ve built both within and outside my course. They’ve really opened up my world and deepened my gratitude for life in general.” 

“I’ve been through a lot of changes while at university,” Brynn added. “It has been hard, but I’ve found support in the community I’ve built here.” 

Professor Sally Moyle, Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic at the University, said: “We are incredibly proud of the students who have received academic scholarships.”  

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. 

Staff at the University have also been raising funds for scholarship and hardship funds as part of the University’s two-year Anniversaries Campaign, celebrating 20 years since gaining full university status in 2005, and 80 years since being founded as an emergency teacher training college in 1946. 

Professor Moyle said: “These awards demonstrate to potential employers the outstanding achievements of our students, while providing financial support and encouragement for those who’ve earned them.”