CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT

There are just a few more days left to enter the prestigious Shine! International Student Awards.  Organised by the British Council, the awards give recognition to international students who are actively participating in University and community life, with the chance to win up to £2,000 in prize money. The awards are not focused on academic achievements, but give proactive students the chance to earn some public recognition for their achievements outside the classroom; whether you are involved in volunteering, teaching, sporting groups, or other community based work.

To enter you need write a ‘letter home’, as if to a relative, friend or a former teacher or mentor, outlining your experiences of student life in the UK.

Last year's winner was American student Matthew Morton. Matthew is clear about the many benefits he’s seen from winning the award: “I never expected to win the Shine Award, however, with the terrific relationships and opportunities that have resulted, I'm so glad that I wrote that 'letter home'. I enthusiastically encourage other international students to write and share their stories of the UK.”   Twelve regional finalists will compete for the title International Student of the Year 2010 at a glittering awards’ ceremony in London in April next year. Martin Davidson, Chief Executive of the British Council, said: “The competition gives students an enjoyable opportunity to gain public recognition for their achievements and the chance to win some great prizes.  We deliberately focus on non academic achievements which gives international students the chance to highlight their wider experiences.”  Now in its eighth year the competition attracts huge interest and since its launch in 2002, over 13,000 students have entered.  For more information on the International Student Awards 2009, please visit: www.educationuk.org/shine