Making the Most of Every Opportunity

For Tinu, coming to Durham was the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Growing up in Lewisham, she had always been ambitious, with a passion for maths, business and accounting. But as she prepared for university, she faced significant financial uncertainty.

Following her father's stroke and with limited family financial support available, Tinu was concerned about how she would manage the costs of university while making the most of the opportunities on offer.

Receiving a scholarship changed that.

The scholarship provided more than financial support. It gave Tinu the confidence and security to fully immerse herself in university life, focusing on her studies, personal development and future career ambitions rather than worrying about making ends meet.

With alumni support, Tinu was able to access essential resources for her degree, including textbooks and a reliable laptop, while helping to cover everyday living costs. More importantly, it gave her the freedom to take advantage of the opportunities that make a Durham education unique.

From participating in employability programmes and business challenges to securing a placement in Corporate Finance with Grant Thornton, Tinu embraced every opportunity to develop her skills and prepare for her future career. She also travelled to Brazil through a Durham-supported international programme, teaching English to local children while connecting with the culture.

Today, Tinu is completing her placement year and preparing for her final year at Durham, with ambitions to qualify as an accountant and build a career in corporate finance. Reflecting on her journey, she believes the scholarship allowed her to focus not only on achieving academic success, but on getting the very best out of her university experience.

For Tinu, opportunity is a pathway to create change. Thanks to the generosity of scholarship donors, she has been able to seize those opportunities and build a future full of possibility.

Help more students like Tinu

Scholarships open doors for talented students whose potential shouldn’t be limited by financial circumstances. 

With donor support, more students can access not just a world-class education, but the confidence, community and opportunities that come with it.