Carol Vorderman is giving nine bursaries worth £2,000 each to students applying to study maths at Swansea University. The TV presenter and former Countdown star went to a comprehensive school in Wales and said she wanted to help students from a similar background.
The bursaries will be offered to applicants for the university's undergraduate degrees in mathematics or Actuarial Science. Swansea University said they will be available to those who start their studies this September.
Sharing details of how to apply on Twitter, Carol spoke of her hope that students from a similar background to her own could benefit. She was brought up in Prestatyn and went to Blessed Edward Jones High School in Rhyl. She has spent much of the last year enjoying Wales, gushing about it on social media.
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Inspired by her maths teacher, she went on to study engineering in Cambridge, becoming one of only a few female students at the time. Carol shared her passion for numbers on Countdown for 26 years and still works to inspire young people, teachers, and parents to enjoy mathematics through her talks, books, and charity work.
Carol said on Twitter: "I'm giving nine bursaries to students who are applying to Swansea University to study Maths this year. I particularly want to help students from a similar background to my own (comp and on free school meals) but these bursaries are available to all."
She added: "Good luck", finishing her message with a heart emoji. The presenter also shared information on how to apply. Swansea University said applications will be assessed by a selection panel, "which will take into account both the background of applicants and answers to a series of questions about motivation for studying at university". They will also be quizzed on their ideas for inspiring others to enjoy mathematics, and career aspirations.
It added: "Reflecting Carol’s background and interests, applicants from Wales or/and from disadvantaged backgrounds are particularly encouraged to apply."
More information on the Carol Vorderman maths bursaries can be found here. The deadline for applications is May 27.
