Raphael's future

Growing up, I really liked mathematics and was fascinated by how it can be applied to solve interesting problems. I knew I wanted to pursue a degree in Engineering Mathematics, but unfortunately university wasn’t accessible to me. When I was 18, I became homeless and lived in a shelter. With very little funding available to me, I had no real stability and experienced constant anxiety about the future. I hesitate to say that my path to university was ‘unconventional’, because I’m sure that a lot of people go through what I went through, but it wasn’t an easy one. 

Thanks to the Futures Scholarship, I was eventually able to come to university. My course allows me to explore the in-depth applications of mathematics and encourages me to get creative with problem solving. My favourite part is the Discrete Mathematics module – this branch of mathematics was new to me, and has helped me appreciate how such simple things as ones and zeros can create the technology we all rely upon today.  

The Futures Scholarship helped me achieve financial stability, and afford the equipment I need for my course. Something I’ve learned since coming to Bristol is that generosity is contagious. I came here with nothing, and I was given a leg up by the Futures Scholarship and those who have supported it. It warms my heart, and makes me want to help others in return through exercising the generosity that the scholarship donors have shown me.  

‘In the past, the thought of doing internships or a placement would have made me feel anxious, but the support I’ve received has given me the confidence to reach out and pursue those opportunities.’

Looking to my future, I’m considering doing a postgraduate degree – possibly in economics – and then potentially going into politics. I’d like to help those who are in the position I was in, to ensure their voices are heard, and I believe being in government is one way I can achieve this.  

Thanks to the employability funding that I’m eligible for as a Futures Scholar, I have been able to accept a placement to study in Taiwan over the summer. The funding will cover my transport and living costs, allowing me to focus on developing my Mandarin skills, honing indispensable problem-solving and communication skills, and teaching English to Taiwanese students. I’m excited about experiencing new cultures and seeing different perspectives, as well as feeling more independent. This opportunity would never have been available to me without the Futures Scholarship, and it blows my mind that I’m able to take part. In the past, the thought of doing internships or a placement would have made me feel anxious, but the support I’ve received has given me the confidence to reach out and pursue those opportunities.  

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to those who have supported the Futures Scholarship – I cannot overstate how much your contributions have helped me overcome the barriers that made university inaccessible to me. Thanks to you, I finally have the privilege of not worrying about tomorrow. 

You can read here for more information on Student Support at Bristol.