20 December 2024
Four students at Fife College have received an early Christmas present after being awarded a scholarship in recognition of their commitment to their studies.
The students, who are all studying Applied Science courses, were selected for the Angela Stewart-Grant Scholarship. Established in memory of Angela, a dedicated science student from Brechin who sadly passed away from bowel cancer in 1999 at the age of 23, the scholarship has been supporting students at the College for an incredible 25 years.
Created by Angela’s mum, Sandra, the scholarship was designed to give hard-working students a little extra money to support their studies and enjoy a well-deserved treat. Sadly, Sandra also passed away a few years ago, but thanks to a generous donation in her will, as well as contributions from College staff, the scholarship has continued to thrive.
This year’s recipients were Neve Stewart, Toni Sneddon, Adel Olivier, and Oscar Baker. As the final students to benefit from the long-running scholarship, they received a share of £2,000. The students plan to use their awards to support their studies and, in keeping with Angela’s wishes, treat themselves during the festive period.
To further honour Angela's memory and celebrate her legacy, the science lab at the College’s new Dunfermline campus will be named after her, ensuring her inspirational story continues to motivate students for generations to come.
HND Applied Science student Neve Stewart, from Glenrothes, said:
“I couldn’t be happier. It was such a lovely surprise, and to be recognised for my hard work is so nice. It really gives me the motivation to continue even as the course gets harder.”
Toni Sneddon, from Buckhaven, who is studying the NC Applied Science course, said:
“I felt so privileged to have even been put forward for this award. It is quite emotional to receive an acknowledgement like this as it is in memory of someone who was truly inspirational and a representation of hard work and academic commitment.”
Adel Olivier, from Edinburgh, also studying the NC Applied Science course, said:
“I am so pleased to know that my lecturer took note of my desire to deliver high-quality work. I know that there are many deserving students, and to be chosen for a scholarship is a huge honour that I don’t take lightly.
“I intend to use the money I receive to purchase a laptop so that I no longer need to rely on a loan from the Fife College library. Having my own device will assist me in delivering consistently high-quality work.”
Oscar Baker, an HNC Applied Science student from Kirkcaldy, said:
“My first reaction to winning the scholarship was shock and disbelief, and then profound gratitude. This scholarship will go so far! After reading Angela's story, I intend to use these funds to help me take full advantage of my return to university, allowing me to pay for supplies and society fees that will maximise my experience."
Lyn Gold, Scholarship and Alumni Engagement Lead at Fife College, said:
“Angela and her family would be thrilled that this scholarship, set up in her name, has supported students for so many years. It’s been a real privilege to see how the scholarship has transformed lives and created lasting opportunities for students.
“Angela’s legacy, and the dedication of her mum Sandra and the staff who contributed and fundraised, have left an indelible mark on Fife College and the students who have been fortunate to benefit from their generosity.”
Fife College’s new Dunfermline City Campus, which will open in the 2025/26 academic year, is part of the new Dunfermline Learning Campus – an innovative and collaborative project that will bring together the College, Woodmill High School, and St Columba’s RC in one purpose-built site.
For more information on scholarships available at Fife College, visit the Adam Smith Scholarships page or contact scholarships@fife.ac.uk.