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Fife College Computing student’s degree studies boosted by scholarship

Posted on: 01/11/24

1 November 2024

Derek Martin-Stead, a dedicated Computing student from Leven, has been awarded this year’s Fife College and Edinburgh Napier University Associate Student Scholarship. 

Derek, currently studying for an HND in Computing: Software Development at Fife College’s Kirkcaldy Campus, was selected for the prestigious award, which will support his transition to further studies at Edinburgh Napier University next year.

The scholarship, now in its fourth year, is co-funded by Adam Smith Scholarships, part of Fife College, and the Edinburgh Napier University Development Trust. It aims to support students on their educational journey, easing financial burdens and enhancing their academic experience.

Derek was recently presented with his scholarship at a special scholarship presentation, which took place in The Academy training restaurant at the Kirkcaldy Campus.

Derek said: 

"Knowing that this would be a very popular scholarship, I feel overwhelmed and extremely lucky to be selected as this year’s recipient. I hope to make my lecturers proud, as well as Fife College itself, when I move on to my studies at Edinburgh Napier University next year.

"This funding will significantly enhance my academic experience. It will enable me to invest in the appropriate technology, such as a high-performance computer capable of running the necessary software for my studies. 

Derek, who was diagnosed with Chronic Pain Syndrome and Fibromyalgia a few years ago, added: 

“Additionally, I will allocate a portion of the funds towards ergonomic equipment to mitigate the impact of my health condition on my studies, ensuring I can focus on my coursework without unnecessary strain or discomfort. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in selecting me for this scholarship."

Iain Hawker, Assistant Principal – Enterprise & Partnerships at Fife College, said:

“Each year, Fife College helps hundreds of students pursue their degree by starting their studies on a Higher National qualification at Fife College. This study pathway enables Derek to progress from his HND directly into year thee of the degree at Edinburgh Napier University. By studying two years of an HND locally at Fife College, our students benefit from learning in a familiar environment while also reducing potential travel and accommodation expenses. 

"We are proud to collaborate with our academic partner, Edinburgh Napier University, to offer this scholarship, which provides additional support to our dedicated degree students."

"We are delighted to present Derek with this year’s scholarship. His commitment to his studies and passion for his subject is clear, and we wish him all the best in his future studies at Edinburgh Napier University." 

Clive Gee, Senior Development Manager at Edinburgh Napier University said:

“We are delighted to be part of this unique partnership with Fife College to offer the Fife College and Edinburgh Napier University Associate Student Scholarship to help support a student on their degree journey.

“Congratulations to Derek, a very worthy recipient of this year’s award. Edinburgh Napier University is committed to widening access for all and this award will provide Derek with financial support throughout his studies to help him achieve his ambitions.

“The Edinburgh Napier Associate Student programme provides college students studying Computing and Engineering the opportunity to study for two years at one of our partner colleges, while guaranteeing a 3rd-year place at Edinburgh Napier University on a number of our degree programmes within the School of Computing, Engineering & the Built Environment.”

For further details about scholarships at Fife College, visit the Adam Smith Scholarships page or email scholarships@fife.ac.uk.