Cardiff Student Overcomes Meningitis Setback to Win Top University Awards

A Cardiff student whose education was derailed when she was hospitalised with meningitis during her A-Levels has earned a £1,000 scholarship and won a prestigious university prize after returning to study.

Imogen May, 27, who is in the second year of her Medical Science degree at the University of Worcester, earned an Academic Scholarship alongside the Oxford Press Prize, which recognises students who display exceptional commitment and dedication to their studies.

“It’s an honour to receive these awards,” she said. “Having struggled with physical and mental health previously, thus delaying my education, they serve as a reminder of what I’m capable of and they motivate me to continue challenging myself and making the most of every opportunity available to me.”

Imogen was predicted straight A*s at A-Level but contracted viral meningitis and was hospitalised, which had a significant impact on both her health and confidence.

“For me, recovery has taken time, perseverance, and a strong support network. My experiences have, without doubt, given me a greater appreciation of the challenges people face and have made me more empathetic and passionate about helping others.”

Speaking about her latest achievements, Imogen said: “It’s extremely rewarding to know that my hard work and dedication have been recognised, and I look forward to building on this achievement as I continue to develop both personally and academically.”

Worcester has been named University of the Year for Graduate Jobs 2027 in the Daily Mail University Guide, with judges describing a performance that ‘leaves many of the Russell Group in the shade’.

 Imogen said: “My vocation in life has always been medicine, and receiving this award gives me both the confidence and encouragement to continue pursuing this ambition. Medicine is a competitive career path, so having my efforts recognised only reinforces my determination to achieve my goal and motivates me to continue working hard and embracing opportunities.”

“It’ll also look great on my CV!” she added.

The University of Worcester is this year shortlisted for the Outstanding Support for Students in the Times Higher Education Awards for the efforts of staff to raise money for student scholarships and hardship funds.

Professor David Green CBE, DL, Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University, said: “Every year, thanks to the generosity of alumni, philanthropists and friends of the University, we are able to award academic scholarships to students who perform outstandingly well – typically gaining straight As across their studies. Achieving such excellent results consistently requires dedication, ability and sheer hard work.”

“All of us at the University are very proud of all our scholarship winners who come from across the range of our courses and from many backgrounds,” he added. “Every year this includes scholarship winners who are students who did not particularly excel at school but find that the intellectual and professional challenge of university combined with the expert education provided at Worcester brings out the very best in them.”