Formula 1 drivers Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button handed out scholarships to one hundred UK students during a ceremony organized by Santander Universities in London.
Six young entrepreneurs have won awards for their outstanding business ideas, and several scholarship winner received certificates from Formula 1 stars as part of the first Santander Universities first UK initiatives.
Last night Radfan Heatwave, a start-up from Newcastle University, took the first prize in the postgraduate category for their idea of more efficient central heating radiators that reduce bills and energy waste.
Royal Holloway University of London topped the undergraduate winners for Jottify, an online community that allows people to share, discuss and sell their individual writings.
During the ceremony at the Spanish Embassy in London, Emilio Botín, Chairman of Banco Santander, announced that Santander Universities Global Division would be offering 10,000 university grants and scholarships in the UK over the next four years.
“Santander’s UK alliance with universities is very successful”, he said. “For us it is an honour to have such a privileged relationship with the UK universities. That’s why in the next four years our target is to distribute 10,000 awards and scholarships.”
This morning, in another event, Mr Botín and Formula 1 drivers Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button handed out scholarships to 100 students in London. The grants are part of the Formula 1 Student program which is giving 300 scholarships worth €5,000 each to students in Brazil, Spain and the United Kingdom. The program was announced earlier this year by Mr. Botín at the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai.
Mr. Botín said that the two drivers represent “leadership, effort, skills and will to succeed. They’re two exceptional drivers and an example to all of us”.
After congratulating wthe students, Jenson Button stressed the importance to students of traveling the world, something “we take for granted, since we change country every two weeks”. Lewis Hamilton’s only advice was to “never give up” and “keep pushing. I think we’re an example of this: we worked hard to get where we are, but we keep pushing”.
Since 1996 Banco Santander, through its Santander Universities Global Division, has channelled €500 million into higher education through co-operative agreements with over 900 universities in 15 countries around the world. Last year the bank announced a commitment of a further €500 million in the next five years.
In the UK, 50 universities have signed collaboration agreements with the bank. In 2010 Santander provided funding for 565 scholarships and 480 mobility awards for UK universities.
Cass Business School in one of the universities that joined the scheme. Last year five students won the Formula Santander Scholarship: Catarina Donat Marques, Diana Gomes, Martin Esteban Perez Enrri, Simone Nascimento, and Gregor Martinez De Riquelme. Gregor, who is currently completing a Master of Science in Real Estate, was at the ceremony in London this morning.
“Winning the Santander scholarship has been a great opportunity for me. It came as a surprise, I was working in New York, and without it I wouldn’t have done this postgraduate degree, it definitely helped me to make the decision.", he says.
He thinks today was a "great event, especially because not only Button and Hamilton were there, but also Botin. His presence shows how interested Santander is in supporting students".
Student Reviews
Best Journalism school in Europe
When I first stepped onto the campus of City, University of London, I knew I was in for a ride - and not just on the Tube! With its vibrant energy and an impressive repertoire of programs, City U became my home away from home.
The Journalism program was kind of a big deal. Rumour was that we were the best in Europe!
The lecturers were not just experts in their field; they’re practically journalistic royalty. They were invested, passionate, and had a knack for turning the most flat press release into a riveting news story. With their guidance, I’ve learned to navigate the chaotic world of media like a pro.
The campus was a melting pot of every culture, being that we had such a diverse international crowd.
Being in the heart of London, I had the world at my fingertips - there was always a new corner to explore, a hidden gem of a cafe to discover, or a street performer!
City, University of London wasn't just a university; it was a chapter in my life story that I’ll never forget.
Learning environment
The teacher-learner ration is manageable, giving each learner a chance to gain personal attention. It is also easier following up on the progress of a student, as the numbers per class is not large. the conducive environment for learning includes clean classes, standard desks, world class instructional facilities and the opportunity to engage lecturers even after their sessions. The team spirit at City is above board, with learners getting chance to learn both from instructors and colleagues. This is the university of choice; the place to be.
Classes
I liked that each class had a manageable number of learners, making the professor-learner ratio favor knowledge acquisition. I also liked that study schedules were manageable, and not overwhelming. The focus on talents and gifts even within the learning environment makes it possible for learners to achieve the best of their potential, and this has worked to the advantage of those that have schooled at City, University of London
Classes
The diversity at City University facilitates interactions and is a direction toward the unity of the world. The classes are well built to match the number and needs of all students regardless of the elements of diversity that set people apart. The use of technology in delivery makes learning even more interesting and achievable. At City University there is no distinction pegged on the issues that make people unique.
professors
The team of lecturers at the Uiversity are well experienced. Their level of insight and the methodologies of delivery works for the interes of the leaeners. My learning experience was largely boosted by the level of knowledge of the professors at the institution, and their passion to transfer the same to learners. I appreciate every class I attended because of the level of insight I was able to gather
The best university I’ve been to
The campus and the people I've met have made it a wonderful experience. I was reared in a small town with a graduating class of only 88 individuals, so moving to City University was a huge adjustment for me. My dorm has more residents than my whole high school combined! I enjoy the atmosphere here, and everyone is so friendly. Outstanding academic options and a stunning campus. Really great from beginning to end. The educators genuinely love what they do, and the students are ready to learn. On or around college, there is always something to do with friends, and the social scene is particularly warm.
Bayes Business School
As a student at City university attending Bayes Business School I would totally recommend choosing this university as the experience is exceptional with great social networking opportunities . Professors are significantly helpful, delivering with excellence and professionalism. Everyone is happy to help and make you feel welcomed in such an esteem university as City, offering exceptional development and guidance through out the course.
Economics and Politics
Incredibly amazing university, the way they polish students and help them boost their morale and think intellectually is worthwhile. Many universities have international partnerships to allow exchanges between their students. The most obvious subjects for these opportunities would be those that involve languages, and the study of people and places.
Clinical biology
I really like it it’s perfect for me with not too many people and not too few either. All the modules are amazing. I love the toy bar. I love all the societies that I’ma part of. Especially the colour Bollywood society
Unlocking My Potential at City University London
My time at City University London was truly transformative. The university's vibrant community and diverse extracurricular activities allowed me to forge lifelong friendships and professional connections that extend beyond the classroom. I was impressed by the university's commitment to academic rigor, character development, and personal growth, which created an ideal environment for me to reach my full potential. The research-driven and industry-relevant curriculum provided me with a solid foundation in international business, while the dedicated faculty and staff offered invaluable guidance and support. I feel grateful for the well-rounded education and holistic experience that City University London offered, preparing me for success in my career and beyond.
Rather interesting
The academics are tough, but in a good way. The professors are experts in their fields, so you know you’re learning from the best. They push you to think for yourself and really dive deep into the subjects. But it’s not all about hitting the books; London itself is like an extension of the campus. You’ve got museums, galleries, and just the general buzz of the city to keep you inspired.
Urban campus life
At the University of London, I have experienced dynamic and diverse academic environment where I was challenged by rigorous coursework. You will have the flexibility to choose from the wide range of courses, participate in numerous extra-curricular activities and take advantage of the many opportunities
