Five minutes with
University of London Scholar, Munir

The University of London Scholars Programme has funded more than 20 students across the federation who are care leavers or estranged from their families, providing them with free, year-round accommodation in our halls of residence.  We speak to one recipient Munir, who is studying for his BA (Hons) Global Politics and International Relations at Birkbeck, University of London. He shared some of his student journey and spoke about the impact of the support he received.   

What has been the impact of receiving accommodation support through the London Scholars Programme?  

Receiving accommodation support through the London Scholars Programme has been life-changing. Growing up in care, having my own space was something I always dreamed of, and this scholarship has given me exactly that. It has lifted the financial burden of paying rent, which has had a ripple effect on so many areas of my life. With this support, I’ve been able to afford therapy, which has been essential in improving my mental health.

Additionally, it’s given me the freedom and security to meet new friends and find a sense of community that I hadn't had before.

Why do you think it’s so important for UoL to be able to support students in this way?  

It’s vital for the University of London to provide support like this because it enables students, particularly those without family support, to fully pursue higher education without the constant worry of financial strain. For many, the daunting costs and lack of a safety net are significant barriers, often deterring them from even considering university. Students who don’t have the backing of parents may face unique challenges; if anything goes wrong, they often don’t have anyone to turn to for help.  

Support like the London Scholars Programme acts as a crucial safety net, offering financial relief and a sense of security, which opens up higher education to students who might otherwise feel it’s out of reach. This freedom from financial stress allows students like me to engage deeply with our studies and take on transformative opportunities, such as internships, without the weight of constant financial pressure.

What do you most enjoy about studying with the University?  

What I enjoy most about studying at the University of London is the immersive learning environment, where the subjects I’m passionate about are celebrated, thoughtfully challenged, and constantly discussed. Being in a place where curiosity and knowledge are valued is incredibly motivating. I also love the diverse community – it’s inspiring to connect with people from so many different backgrounds, each bringing unique perspectives and experiences. It makes every conversation richer and every learning experience deeper. 

What are your main ambitions during your time at the University and after you graduate?  

My main ambitions during my time at UoL are to fully engage with my studies and successfully obtain my degree, while also gaining hands-on experience through internships that allow me to apply what I’ve learned in meaningful ways. These internships are especially important to me, as they provide insight into different fields and help me discover where my true interests lie. After I graduate, my hope is to work in a sector I’m passionate about, one that aligns with my values and allows me to make a positive impact – even if I’m still exploring exactly what that might be.  

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the individuals and organisations who have given towards student scholarships, including the University of London Scholars Programme.

Learn more about supporting students through the University’s scholarships programme.