Former Walsall College Student Earns £1,000 Scholarship Award

A former Walsall College student has praised the college for helping her become “a better version of myself” after earning a £1,000 scholarship to support her at university.

Sarrinah Hussain, 18, and studying Law with Criminology at the University of Worcester, earned her Academic Scholarship Award through consistent excellence in her studies.

“Receiving this award means more than words can express,” she said. “It represents years of hard work, determination and resilience.”

Sarrinah said she had faced many challenges on her journey to starting her degree.

“My journey has not been straightforward,” she said. “I’ve faced many medical challenges and navigated difficult times which have tested me in ways I didn’t imagine, but I never allowed these challenges to define me, limit my potential or determine what I can achieve.”

“The money will help ease the pressure and contribute towards future savings, study-related expenses, resources and opportunities that will help me reach my goals,” she added.

Sarrinah paid tribute to her former tutors at Walsall College. She said: “I don’t think there are enough words to express my gratitude and appreciation. You all helped me so much, inspired me, and truly supported me through my studies. Not only was the support there consistently in the classroom, but outside the classroom as well.”

She added: “The teaching was well structured, and my college allowed me to become a better version of myself, helped me gain vital skills, and helped me move forward in life.”

When she finishes her degree, Sarrinah hopes to travel, pursue her career and is considering further study.

Reflecting on her time at Worcester so far, she said: “My best experience has got to be finding my people and my friends. I’ve found friendships that are true and meaningful. I’ve formed connections with people, and I truly feel I am becoming the best version of myself.”

Sarrinah is studying at the University of the Year for Graduate Jobs in the Daily Mail University Guide 2027, with judges describing a performance that “leaves many of the Russell Group in the shade”.

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.”