Congratulations to Willow Stevenson, 18, who will be joining us. Manchester University in September to study sociology and German. Willow has been confirmed as a recipient of the university's new scholarship for students with experience of care or care leavers, which will begin next academic year.
University Equality, diversity and inclusion The team ran a ‘We Belong Here’ event in April 2023, which aimed to inspire young people in care to think about going to university and consider Manchester as a university of choice. At the event, Professor Jackie Carter met several young people in care or excluded, including Willow. Jackie was very moved by Willow, stating: ‘What struck me about Willow was her motivation to study sociology because all the books she had read didn’t mention people like her.’
Following the event, Jackie arranged for Willow to undertake an internship at the university. Willow shadowed Jackie, met other lecturers, interacted with university students and spent time exploring the campus. Jackie also offered to mentor Willow, supporting and guiding her through her A-Level exams and encouraging her to apply for the course she wanted to study. Reflecting on her work experience, Willow wrote: “It felt like they wanted you to succeed and find your place in this academic world. Like, it’s not just about getting a degree, it’s about discovering your passions, pushing your boundaries and becoming the best version of yourself.”
On A-Level results day, Willow found out she would be coming to university in September to study her dream course, a brilliant result. Jackie says: “A year ago, she didn’t even know she could study this degree and had no intention of applying to Manchester University.”
Since Willow received her results, Jackie has reflected on the impact she and other female staff members have had on Willow. Emphasizing the importance of representation, Jackie says, “I think helping her [Willow] “Meeting strong women who cared about her progress was a huge boost for her.”
The University of Manchester continues to support young people who are looked after or excluded to succeed in higher education. Willow’s story and the dedication shown by Professor Jackie Carter and the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion team show that change is both possible and essential.
- For more information about The University of Manchester's commitment to caring for young people who have experienced hardship and neglect, please visit this website. page.