Salford Giving

My name is Matt, and I studied Environmental Management. I’m now pursuing a Masters in Sustainability at Salford, supported by the Farrat scholarship. My journey with the University of Salford began during my undergraduate years, and it was an experience that left a lasting impression on me. The campus, with its amazing greenery and welcoming atmosphere, felt like a second home. The friendly staff and fellow students created a supportive environment that made my time here truly special.

When it came time to choose a university for my master’s degree, the decision was clear. Returning to Salford meant reconnecting with familiar lecturers and forging new relationships with those I hadn’t yet met. The wealth of opportunities available, coupled with the flexibility in assignment briefs that allow students to explore topics of personal interest, made Salford the obvious choice for continuing my academic journey.

I caught up with the Philanthropy team to discuss the impact of my donor-funded scholarship which is helping me to gain my postgraduate degree.

Why did you apply for a donor-funded Scholarship?

Financial constraints have always been a part of my life. Since the age of 16, I’ve been working to support myself and my family. Despite saving diligently over the past year to afford my return to university, the budget remained tight. The donor-funded scholarship offered not just financial relief but also the chance to connect with a company in a field my own. This opportunity to build further links was an added attraction that made applying for the scholarship a no-brainer.

How has the Scholarship impacted your time at Salford?

The scholarship has had a profound impact on my time at the University of Salford, extending far beyond financial support. It has opened doors to networking opportunities that I hadn’t anticipated. Motivated by these new connections, I created a LinkedIn profile, which has become a valuable tool for sharing relevant news and updates about my course. This platform has helped me stay connected with industry professionals and peers.

Financially, the scholarship has provided much-needed relief, allowing me to focus more on my studies without the constant worry about expenses. This shift in focus has been instrumental in my academic success.

The scholarship has also been a catalyst for my personal development, instilling a newfound confidence that has helped me to pursue my goals despite any lingering self-doubt. The support and opportunities from the University, combined with the scholarship, have created an environment where I can thrive academically and personally.

My time at the University of Salford has been one of growth, opportunity, and the support. The donor-funded scholarship has played a crucial role in shaping my experience, allowing me to focus on my studies and build valuable connections that will benefit me long after graduation.

We caught up with Ellie, a first-year BSc Architectural Engineering student and recipient of the Gerry Mason Scholarship. This Scholarship, established in 2015 to honour Gerry Mason, the founder of the Morson Group in 1969, supports aspiring engineers in pursuing STEM courses. This initiative, has established a lasting collaboration between the Morson Group and the University and empowered students like Ellie to succeed

We spoke with Ellie to learn how the scholarship is supporting her academic journey:

What brought you to study at the University of Salford and what do you enjoy most about your time here?

I chose the University of Salford because of its vibrant campus and its convenient location. The SEE building particularly drew me in with its modern and well-equipped facilities, providing an inspiring environment for learning. The best part of my time here has been meeting amazing people from diverse backgrounds, which has broadened my perspective and made my experience truly memorable.

Why did you apply for a donor-funded scholarship?

I applied for a donor-funded scholarship after attending an event through the Go Beyond Women in SEE, where a member of the Philanthropy Team, Ellie, gave a talk about the scholarships and what they offer. I didn’t know these opportunities existed, but after hearing about the incredible support they provide, I knew it was something I wanted to apply for.

Besides the financial support, how has the scholarship impacted your time at the University of Salford?

The scholarship has given me confidence in my projects by showing me that others believe in what I can achieve. This support has motivated me to push myself further and take on new challenges with a stronger sense of self-belief.

How has your scholarship influenced your time at the University of Salford?

My scholarship has influenced my time at the University of Salford by giving me the opportunity to attend events that have boosted my confidence and expanded my knowledge. These events have allowed me to connect with inspiring people, gain new insights, and feel more supported in my academic journey.

Is there anything else you would like our audience to know before we conclude your interview?

I am a founder of the Salford Architectural Society. Being part of this initiative has allowed me to create a space where students can collaborate, share ideas, and engage with the wider architectural community. It’s been an incredibly rewarding experience that has further enriched my time at the University of Salford.

Donor-Funded Scholarships and Bursaries make a huge difference to our student’s educational experience, it allows them to gain valuable experience and purchase materials to help with their studies, that may not have been possible before.

If you want to read more stories like Ellie’s, check out our supporter’s blog, and if you want to help fund our scholarships, and support students like Ellie, we would love to hear from you. You can email us at supporters@salford.ac.uk or donate directly here.

Founded in 2001, Gamma Telecoms Plc, also known as Gamma Communications, is a UK-based telecommunications company. They provide a wide range of communication services and have become a leading provider in the UK specifically for businesses.

In 2024, Gamma generously elected to set up a new scholarship programme, to support two new undergraduate scholarships. Each scholarship provides students with £10,000 over three years of study, showcasing Gamma’s dedication to supporting education and enriching the lives of our students. Philanthropy scholarships are more than just a cash award for our students; it’s a moment of recognition and a testament to our belief in their abilities and potential.

Earlier this year, Chris Smith, the ESG Programme Manager at Gamma, had the opportunity to meet the scholarship recipients, Jess and Ahmed. After a whistle stop tour of the campus, both students took the lead in showcasing the state-of-the-art SEE Building, which is the School of Science Engineering and Environment’s new home for innovation and discovery. They provided an insightful tour, highlighting the various laboratories, collaborative workspaces and industry leading features the building has to offer.

Chris said: ‘It was fantastic to meet our scholars, Jess and Ahmed this week and seeing what enthusiasm and commitment they have to their subjects. Talking with them about their studies and walking on ‘their patch’ on campus brings the whole partnership to life in such an authentic way. I can’t wait to hear how they are getting on over the next 3-4 years and feel very privileged on behalf of Gamma to be their interface with our business.’

Ahmed, a first year Computer Science with Cyber Security student, said, ‘I’m grateful for Gamma’s support through this scholarship and the potential opportunities that it will bring to help shape my future. Meeting Chris from Gamma reinforced how valuable this scholarship is, and I’m excited to see where it leads.’

Jess is a first year Physics student and is excited for the opportunities the scholarships will provide, saying, ‘I am grateful for such a wonderful opportunity, and the amount of overwhelming support I’ve received from this scholarship. I now have access to resources that enrich my education which wasn’t possible without my scholarship, as well as the chance to make the most of my time as a university student. I’m forever thankful to Gamma and the scholarship programme for everything they have done for me.’

We would like to say a heartfelt thank you to Gamma for their support of the university and our students. Your generosity is profoundly impacting our scholars, and we look forward to witnessing their continued growth throughout their academic journeys.

Bellway is a leading UK homebuilder established in 1946, and they have built a reputation for constructing a diverse range of homes, from affordable housing to luxury properties. At the Energy House 2.0 labs, Bellway has ‘The Future Home’ (see image below) that tests green technologies in real-life scenarios to lower carbon emissions and guide future home construction. They are testing various heating methods, including the UK’s first roof-mounted air source heat pump, infrared panels, mechanical ventilation, double vs. triple glazing, and a heat-recovering shower. Find out more about their home here.

Following its philanthropic contributions to the ‘Friends of Energy House 2’ campaign, Bellway has generously introduced two new undergraduate scholarships, providing students with £15,000 each over three years of study. This demonstrates its commitment to supporting education and enriching the lives of our students.

Paul Lawler, Bellway’s Group Head of Communications, recently had the pleasure of meeting the scholarship recipients, Louie and Joseph, at a vibrant event celebrating the Friends of Energy House 2.0 campaign. The event was a wonderful opportunity for the scholars to connect with Bellway.

Paul said, ”It was a pleasure to meet Louie and Joseph at our Energy House 2.0 project and learn how our scholarship sponsorship has helped them access higher education at The University of Salford.  Through the Friends of Energy House, we are able to build on the work we are doing with the University beyond the research project.  So as well as leading the future of homebuilding though the project, we are also able to help the generation develop the skills required to deliver these homes.”

Louie, an Electrical and Electronic Engineering student, shared his heartfelt gratitude for Bellway’s support: ”This scholarship will help me afford accommodation, easing the stress of finance, allowing me to focus wholly on my studies. As well as this, I’ll be able to afford a laptop that can run the simulation software I’ll be using in my course.” His enthusiasm and dedication to his studies were evident as he spoke about the positive impact the scholarship would have on his academic journey.

Joseph, studying Physics, expressed his appreciation: ”The scholarship has provided me with valuable support financially to cover transport whilst commuting to university as well as additional resources such as a laptop to enhance my studies. Potentially, I will be able to attend the Physics Society trip to a place of scientific interest. However, the most exciting prospect is the opportunity of work experience over the summer.”

A huge thank you to Bellway for its unwavering support towards the University and our students. Their generosity is making a significant difference to their scholars, whom we look forward to watching continue to grow throughout their academic journeys.

More information

Donor-Funded Scholarships and Bursaries make a huge difference to our student’s educational experience, it allows them to gain valuable experience and purchase materials to help with their studies, that may not have been possible before.

If you want to read more stories like Louie’s and Joseph’s, click the drop under ‘Students and Scholarships’. If you want to help fund our scholarships, we would love to hear from you. Please email us at supporters@salford.ac.uk or simply donate here.