Student of the Year

Winning the CMI Student of the Year award would be incredible – on a personal level it would more than confirm I am on the right career path after I encountered well-documented barriers to women returning to work in science following a career break to raise a family. Regardless of whether I win this award, I am so grateful for being given the key to unlock my own potential through doing the course at all, but even more grateful for the understanding that the same key unlocks the potential of the people on my team – for me, seeing them grow and succeed has been the real reward.

As someone who was not planning on going to university and almost dropped out in second year due to mental health issues, receiving such a amazing award would be a great honour and would be the perfect end to my university experience. In addition, i feel as receiving the award for outstanding performance would enhance my professional profile while also boosting my self confidence and self esteem, as this is something I feel I limited particularly in a professional setting due to not having too much experience in the business world.

Winning this award would mean the absolute world to me - I know everyone says it but I really do mean it. As a young woman who left school at 16 years old with a very small handful of GCSEs, it has been an amazing experience and opportunity to develop as a mature student and achieve academic recognition for the work experience that I had built up over the years. Through CMI & SERC my ability has not only been recognised, but it has been nurtured and embraced. I have been so encouraged to continue with my professional development and I feel that this award would be the ultimate recognition for my determination and drive to continue my learning journey.