16 Jun 2021

Three Ulster University students have received scholarships from Choice Housing, one of the largest independent housing associations in Northern Ireland.

The ‘Choice Scholarship’, in partnership with Ulster University, provides much needed support to those who face financial, social and logistical barriers to furthering their education.

Since being launched in 2019, 9 students have been supported by the scheme, which will run for 5 years, supporting up to 15 students in total.

This year, three First Year students have been selected to receive the Choice Housing Scholarship.  The undergraduate students who met widening access and participation criteria established by Ulster University were each awarded prizes of £1,000.

Speaking about the ‘Choice Scholarships’, Lawrence Jackson, Group Director of Corporate Services at Choice said:

“We are delighted to be continuing this important partnership with Ulster University at this crucial time for young people in higher education.  As part of our commitment to local communities, we are investing in and developing thriving communities, using housing as a foundation for transforming people’s lives.  This commitment goes beyond the provision of housing, identifying the wider need of people and the positive impact they can have in their local communities.

 “We hope that through these awards, Choice can help the individual recipients to succeed in the future and empower them on their journey through higher education during incredibly challenging times.”

Rachel Kelly, Choice Scholarship recipient: -

“I am currently within my first year of university studying Health and Social Care Policy. I am studying full time and really enjoying my course and very grateful that I could use the money from the scholarship for new equipment such as a laptop for university as due to the Covid-19 pandemic we are learning remotely so it was essential that I had a fully functioning laptop to carry out online lectures and meet deadlines.”

 Professor Brian Murphy, Interim Dean Academic Business Development, Ulster University

 “We are delighted that Choice Housing continues to invest in our students’ futures.  At Ulster University we believe personal circumstances shouldn’t limit potential and we are committed to extending learning opportunities. We also note that in a year where students were adapting to the challenges of remote learning, it is fitting that a leading housing association is helping our scholars to continue their studies. Thank you Choice Housing.”

 

About Ulster University

Ulster University is a modern, forward-looking institution with student experience at the very heart of everything we do. Our high-quality teaching, informed by world-leading research across key sectors, boosts the economy and has a positive impact on the lives of people around the world. 

For more information, please visit www.ulster.ac.uk or follow us on Twitter @ulsteruni