Former Herefordshire College Student Honoured with Prestigious Scholarship

A former Herefordshire College student who overcame the challenges of adjusting to university life through hard work, determination and self-belief has been awarded a £1,000 scholarship for academic excellence.

Zakia Sherzai, currently studying for her Medical Science degree at the University of Worcester, has scooped the prestigious Academic Scholarship award for academic excellence during her studies.

“Receiving this scholarship means a great deal to me,” said Zakia. “It recognises my hard work, dedication and commitment to my education, and it motivates me to continue working towards my goals and to make the most of the opportunities available to me at the University of Worcester.”

Zakia said Herefordshire College played a vital role in her getting where she is today.

“I received a great deal of support from my teachers and other staff at Herefordshire, Ludlow and North Shropshire College,” she said. “Their guidance and encouragement helped me improve my knowledge, build my confidence and prepare for university.”

She added: “I’m very grateful for their support.”

Zakia said the financial element of the scholarship will allow her to focus more on her studies.

“I plan to spend it on essential study materials, textbooks, and other resources that will support my learning in Medical Science,” she said. “It’ll also ease some of the financial pressure associated with being a university student.”

Zakia said that initially she found it a challenge to adjust to life as a university student.

She said: “I overcame these challenges by staying motivated, working hard and asking for support whenever I needed it. I have learned to be more independent, manage my time better and believe in myself. These experiences have helped me grow both academically and personally.”

Zakia continued: “The best thing about my experience at the University of Worcester has been the welcoming and supportive environment. The staff are helpful and encouraging, and I’ve enjoyed meeting new people, learning new things and developing my knowledge.”

The University of Worcester was recently 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".

The University is also 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.”