Starting university is a pivotal moment in a young person’s life. It’s the first step on a new path towards a great degree, a fulfilling career and a secure future. Along the way, they will explore new concepts and ideas, and forge lifelong friendships. At UCD, we believe that access to the formative experiences of a university education should be available to every student with the talent and tenacity to succeed, and not just to those who can afford it. However, today’s students are facing unprecedented challenges, not least the rising cost of living and the lack of suitable, affordable accommodation.
A Community That Cares
The appropriate support at the right time gives students the confidence to navigate adversity in pursuit of their personal and academic ambitions. At UCD, this support comes from a remarkable community of alumni and philanthropic donors, who care deeply about the experiences and wellbeing of the current generation of UCD students. Their collective generosity in donating to the UCD Champions Fund and College Student Support Funds has a profound impact across the University, particularly for students like Caitlin (below), whose life has been transformed by a Cothrom na Féinne scholarship.
UCD Cothrom na Féinne Scholar
UCD Sutherland Opportunity supported by Mason Hayes & Curran
When I found out I would receive a scholarship, I felt relieved…”
“I’m a third year Business and Law student and am absolutely loving my time here at UCD. I’m from a tiny village in West Cork, so the adjustment to life in Dublin was a bit of a culture shock. I have been financially independent from my parents since I was 18, so when I moved up here, I had about €2,000 in my bank account. The house I was living in was extremely dilapidated, but it was all I could afford. I used to come to college smelling of mould, which was very embarrassing and took a toll on my mental health.
“When I found out I would receive a scholarship, I felt relieved. Before the first instalment arrived in my account, my savings were gone. I was eating poorly and my living situation was very uncomfortable. With the first instalment, I went out to buy apples and raspberries. Having the freedom to spend that €2 on my favourite fruit felt monumental to me. I was also able to move out of that house in second year, and am now somewhere much nicer. Before I received this scholarship, I was living well below the poverty line. I am so grateful and I really hope that this support can be available to others just like me.”
We are eternally grateful to all the wonderful alumni and supporters whose wholehearted generosity is making a world of difference for brilliant students like Caitlin. Thanks to you, students from all walks of life know they belong in our vibrant, diverse UCD community.
■ To learn more about how you can support UCD students today, visit: www.ucdfoundation.ie/supporting-students