A scholarship enabled me to be the first in my family to attend university
Isabelle Le Coutre Mauger shares her story as a first-generation university student at SOAS, showcasing how a scholarship can transform lives and help break down barriers to education.
Going to university can open doors to personal and professional growth. For Isabelle Le Coutre Mauger, the first in her family to attend university, the journey has been transformative. Now, in her third year of pursuing a BA in Linguistics at SOAS, Isabelle reflects on how a University of London scholarship has shaped her path, making her dream of higher education a reality.
This is why SOAS is running a month-long campaign to help raise funds for SOAS scholarships. We hear from students about the impact of a SOAS education made possible through a scholarship programme.
Choosing SOAS and becoming a student
“When I was considering my university options, what attracted me to SOAS was its unique way of structuring its academic teachings; SOAS is home to subjects like no other, and being able to attend a university that aligns with the majority of my personal views is a privilege that I am so grateful for. Due to the reputation of SOAS, many other students have the same outlook on life, creating a community feel that can be found nowhere else.”
Being surrounded by people driven by their commitment to activism and social justice has been a constant inspiration.
“My experience at SOAS has been invaluable to my development, not only in my academic life but also in my personal life. Being surrounded by people driven by their commitment to activism and social justice has been a constant inspiration. There is a healthy balance between our education and social lives, while also having access to one of the most beautiful libraries in London to complete our work in.”
Overcoming barriers and the impact of a scholarship
"Like myself, there are still many students across the country who are the first to attend university in their entire family tree. Being the first to do so is often a very confusing and challenging experience, paired with the feeling that you do not belong there, but SOAS has been the perfect place to soothe all these worries due to its diverse campus of people from every single walk of life, going through this unknown time, together."
"My scholarship has benefitted me in multiple ways during my last three years at SOAS, being able to attend multiple events hosted by the University of London and SOAS has created a constant stream of motivation. I did not know of anyone who could support me academically or in a future career when I first attended SOAS, but since attending these events, it has greatly improved my confidence along with my excitement to begin my career."
Being the first [in the family to attend uni] is often a very confusing and challenging experience...but SOAS has been the perfect place to soothe all these worries due to it's diverse campus of people.
"I am forever grateful to be a University of London scholarship holder. The impact the donors have on all areas of my life, along with the other scholarship recipients, is something I will always remain grateful and humble for. I hope to be able to do this in return for other students. Your support of scholarships does not stand alone; it is an inspiration to look up to."
Supporting more students
We have committed to investing half of our annual surplus to specifically fund scholarships. However, with nearly 1,000 scholarship applications received annually, we cannot keep up with demand. Regardless of circumstance, no student should experience financial hardship while studying. When you give to scholarships, you help us keep the brightest talent at SOAS.
Make your gift today to support student scholarships and change lives.
