Doubling donations, securing success

“I would like to say thank you very much for giving me the opportunity to really thrive during university,” said Assia Dioudi, one of the University’s Robertson Scholars. “The scholarship has fuelled my passion to keep working hard, and hopefully, in the future, I’ll be able to give back financially and through my life as a doctor helping people medically. So, thank you again.”

The Robertson Trust’s Journey to Success programme enables Scottish students from disadvantaged backgrounds to access university education. “The programme is unique because it not only provides financial support to a student throughout their time at university but also bolsters it with an enhanced programme of personal and professional development, ranging from interview skills to supporting placement opportunities,” said Thomas Kinney-Nicol, Senior Development Officer at the University of Dundee.

“The Robertson Trust generously matches any donations made to the University’s Robertson Scholars programme,” Thomas continued. “This means your donation has double the impact and will help more young Scots positively transform their lives through Higher Education.”

The University’s alumni community has always been passionate about supporting current students, and the Class of 1974 Medics recognise the value of the Robertson Scholars programme. In 2021, they supported the next generation of medical students by raising £29,153, which is match-funded by the Robertson Trust and supports three Robertson scholars. Geoffrey Bedford, Class of 1974 Medics, said, “Anything we can do to help students reduce their debt when they qualify is a big thing.”

Amy Crawford is in her second year of Medicine and explains how the scholarship has impacted her. “I’m really grateful for the scholarship and want to give a massive thank you to all of the Class of 1974 Medics who have helped fund this. The scholarship has meant that I can live in Dundee, which I couldn’t afford otherwise, allowing me to have a fresh start and meet some of the most wonderful people I know,” she explained. “My experience at university would be entirely different without this opportunity, and I’m so thankful for it.”