Where you start should not limit where you go in your future.

The University of Opportunity Fund is designed to ensure talented students are able to access higher education, succeed while they are at York, and build bright futures beyond graduation, regardless of their background or the barriers they face.

For Somir, it meant discovering that higher education was an option for someone like him. His story is just one example of how your donations to the University of Opportunity fund help students from underrepresented backgrounds overcome challenges, discover new ambitions, and realise their potential.

“The presentation at my sixth form opened my eyes to the idea that higher education is accessible to everyone, regardless of background. Next Step York made university feel within reach.” - Somir, Human Geography and Environment Graduate

Growing up in Grimsby, Somir initially assumed university was out of reach due to concerns about costs, fitting in, and a lack of clear guidance. He was set on joining the RAF, believing higher education wasn't a realistic option. That changed during a morning assembly when he learned about Next Step York, one of the University's fantastic access programmes made possible through the University of Opportunity fund.

It’s often in those early stages of considering and applying for university that students require the reassurance that there will be financial support and experienced guidance to help them see that university isn’t just a dream, but a real possibility.

Attending the programme's summer residential completely changed Somir’s perspective. Workshops on budgeting, bursaries, and academic preparation stripped away the fear of debt and showed him that a strong support system was ready to help him succeed. Thanks to the generosity of donors to the University of Opportunity fund, Somir was able to flourish at York – not only academically, but through active involvement in societies and working as a Student Ambassador to inspire other prospective students from similar backgrounds.

The support Somir received through access initiatives gave him the skills, confidence, and foundation to thrive. After graduating, he secured a place on a graduate rotational scheme in construction and today works as a Quantity Surveyor in Leeds.

How your support makes a difference

The University of Opportunity Fund provides practical support, financial assistance, and opportunities that help students overcome barriers to education and achieve their potential. Depending on where the need is greatest, your gift could help provide:

- Bursaries and scholarships

- Emergency financial support

- Accommodation and settling-in support

- Mentoring, wellbeing, and peer support

- Support with the costs of joining clubs and societies

- Careers and employability support

Every gift helps provide the backing, encouragement, and opportunities students need to succeed at York and beyond.

“Your donations go a long way! Not just for attending the programme itself, but also in shaping a future career for those who need it most.” - Somir

Will you help future students like Somir?

The University of Opportunity Fund exists to ensure where someone starts in life does not limit where they can go in the future. By making a gift as part of Giving Day, you'll help more students facing barriers to education access the support they need to succeed at York and build brighter futures beyond graduation.

Thank you.