For many students, university is so much more than a degree. Whilst it is central to the experience, life at Loughborough has so much more to offer. Students can explore new opportunities, build confidence and skills, and discover a future career path. However, that can be difficult for some students.

It is thanks to donations to Opportunity Scholarships that Phoenix, a Psychology student, can enjoy university life to the full. By relieving financial pressures, Opportunity Scholars can fully immerse themselves in student life and leave Loughborough equipped for what comes next.

Alongside her studies, Phoenix has embraced student life by devoting time to extra-curricular activities. She has taken on a range of roles across the Loughborough community, supporting prospective students as an ambassador for her course and exploring something completely new by getting involved with LSU Media. As a Welfare and Diversity representative for Hazlerigg-Rutland Hall, Phoenix has worked to create an inclusive environment for her peers – building valuable skills that are relevant to her newfound career path.

Receiving a scholarship has provided vital support during her first two years, helping to cover day-to-day living costs. As a Scholar, Phoenix receives £3,000 a year for three years of study. She said:

Without this scholarship, I would not have been able to afford my time at university and therefore would have struggled to pursue further education."

As Phoenix explored placement opportunities across the UK for her year in industry, she realised that it could also incur costs. Thanks to her scholarship, Phoenix didn't miss out. She added:

I had to travel across the country to assessment centres and interviews, and this was rather costly. It was very comforting knowing I had the money there from my scholarship, and I didn't have to miss out on these opportunities because of financial reasons."

The scholarship has allowed her to focus on pursuing opportunities and gaining valuable experience rather than worrying about the financial challenges that can often accompany them:

Your donations have made it possible for me to pursue my dream and allow me to create a greater future for myself. I cannot thank you enough for your continued support!"

In 2025/26, 94% of scholarship recipients were from households with an income of less than £10,000 per year. Scholarships help to ensure talented students can access opportunities, realise their potential, and build successful futures regardless of their financial circumstances. Thanks to you, since the programme launched in 2013, over 450 students have benefited from an Opportunity Scholarship. Yet so many more students need support to continue their journey to success.

Currently, just 1 in 3 students in need are awarded a scholarship.

You can be the difference in someone's journey this Giving Day.

17 November 2026 is Giving Day! The Loughborough community will come together once again to support students through Opportunity Scholarships, Sports Scholarships, and the Loughborough Fund. Your support on Giving Day could ensure no student is left behind.