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My name is Dan. I’m currently studying Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering at the University of Southampton. Prior to this, I attended KES between 2015-2022 on a full bursary. I had a brilliant time at KES, meeting some wonderful people along the way. It has given me a great foundation for my future – I feel very privileged and lucky to have attended.
I grew up in Southampton, about a half hour walk from the School. Our family first heard about KES from a friend whose daughter had attended on a bursary. I sat the entrance exam and was offered a place. My parents were elated, but to be honest, I was quite nervous at first. Coming to KES meant I was leaving my primary school friends behind. Looking back, I’m really glad I made that step and it was definitely the best decision. Very quickly I felt welcome at the School and made good friends, even if rugby wasn’t really my thing!
If I could pinpoint one thing that KES instilled in me, it would be my work ethic. The homework that we were set was definitely more than other schools, but I got into a regular routine of completing this on time. This has stayed with me during University and I’ve been able to keep on top of the significant amount of work needed to succeed in my degree. Thanks to the passion and help of my teachers, my love for maths and science was born at KES. I studied chemistry, physics, maths and further maths at A Level. Now that I’ve got part way through my degree, I can see just how strong a foundation KES provided for me academically.
More widely, I loved the culture of the School. Outside of my studies, I always enjoyed playing football and table tennis at lunchtimes. KES taught me valuable skills and lessons - to be more self-confident, but also how to help others and put them before myself. These values stemmed from the brilliant support of my teachers - they would dedicate extra time to helping you with anything you didn’t understand. In sixth form, their support with applying to University was also invaluable.
My ultimate goal is to be able to provide my future family with a happy upbringing, as well as to be able to travel around the world and explore places. I’m not sure what I wish to do for a career just yet – for now I am focused on making the most of my degree.
If I was talking to my 11-year-old self, wondering whether to go ahead and come to KES on a bursary, I would say ‘just do it’. It is most definitely worth it, you will regret it if you don’t.
And to those who have donated to help fund bursaries like mine, I’d like to say a big thank you. You are providing people like me with amazing learning opportunities and the best chance for a successful future. I don’t know if I would be studying for such a great degree without having come to KES, but what I do know is it was a fantastic seven years for me and I will always be thankful for the opportunity.
