In January 2016, grants totalling almost £50,000 were made to 19 different student projects across the University, which will further enhance the student experience and employability of Kent students. The Student Projects Grant Scheme is funded by generous gifts from alumni and friends to the Kent Opportunity Fund, which was established to increase opportunities for students at Kent, today and in the future.

Now in its fourth year, the Student Projects Grant Scheme has already made a huge impact. Since it was established in 2013, the Scheme has funded 58 student projects including the Work-Study Scheme, which helps students improve their employability by taking up meaningful placements on campus whilst receiving trainings on CV writing and interviews; and the Cants2Dam, in which students ran 300 miles in 10 days to raise fund for the Kent Opportunity Fund and the British Heart Foundation.

The Grant Allocation Panel, chaired by Kent alumnus and Director of Student Services Dr Wayne Campbell, comprises representatives from colleges, academic schools, Kent Union, the Alumni Office and the donor community. Mr Stephen Hearnden, donor representative of the Panel, said: ‘I found reviewing the various projects a hugely rewarding experience. It is something other alumni should get involved with. I was impressed by the scope and breadth of these projects which were wide and various. I would encourage all students to consider applying if they have an interesting idea which needs help with additional funding. Employers will look favourably upon such endeavours and if additional funding can be raised too, this can only help the student and also demonstrate his or her potential.’

The next funding cycle of the Student Projects Grant Scheme will open in autumn 2016. Details of the successful projects for 2016 can be found on the Student Projects page.