AWARD WINNERS
Alexander Mclean - 2007 Winner
Age: 22
University: Nottingham University
Degree: Law
Alexander was the founding member of the African Prison's project - a charity which raises money to refurbish clinics and libraries in maximum security prisons in sub-Saharan Africa. The main aim of the charity is to provide a basic level of education and healthcare to death row prisoners. He has set up a website, www.africanprisons.com, which documents the charity's development and media coverage.
What motivates you?
I am motivated by a desire to try and make the most of my time and the wealth of opportunities available to me and other young people in the UK. As well as pushing my self academically and intellectually I try to do what I can to make the lives of others comfortable. I am motivated by the fact that many doors are open to me that weren't open to other members of my family and that life is short.
What are you likely to do with the prize money?
I have spent some of it treating others who are involved in the project alongside me, some will go towards the work we're doing in Uganda this year and some towards my maintenance whilst I'm here- I've got no source of income whilst in Africa and don't use any of the charity money for my expenses, so it will certainly make life easier in that respect. Some will go into savings as I intend to begin investing in property soon.
What were your aims when you first started university?
To have a good time, to make the most of the opportunities available to me there, to come out with a decent degree, to make a lot of friends and to equip myself for life after university.
How did you go about taking your opportunities?
With an open mind and without scrutinising them too deeply. My father says I'm good at looking at the bigger picture but I don't pay so much attention to the small things, I'd prefer to be this way than the other way round.
Do you have any advice to other students wanting to make the most of their time at university?
I'm sure everyone has there own way of making the most of their time, but for me I'd say it's good to take your studies seriously but not to the exclusion of other things, to mix with people that you might not have mixed with before and to watch less TV.
What impact have your experiences at University had on you?
They have shown me how much it is possible to fit into life, that it's not a problem if you don't necessarily "follow the crowd" and that a lot of people are good at talking the talk but that's often where it stops.
Of what achievements are you most proud?
Of course it's nice to get awards and being a young magistrate, but I'm happiest that I've been able to make my family proud, they've invested a lot of time and love in me.