Thanks to his inspirational story of student life in the UK, Edward Moline was a finalist in the prestigious International Student Awards 2007. More than 2,000 students, representing 130 nationalities and studying at universities, colleges of further and higher education, schools and English language institutions across the UK, entered this year’s competition, now in its fifth year.
Moline won his place in the final after being named International Student of the Year for the south-west region of the UK. He joined 11 other regional winners competing for the overall UK International Student of the Year title at an awards’ ceremony in London, where he was presented with a £1,000 prize and a commemorative trophy.
The presentation was made by Malaysian-born shoe designer, Jimmy Choo, who himself studied in the UK.
Moline said: ‘I am very grateful to receive such an award for my work and engagement in Bristol University. It would not have been possible without support from numerous individuals and institutions, especially the University of Bristol Students’ Union. I would like to thank everyone who has helped and supported me during my time in the UK.’
The International Student Awards are different from other student competitions. Instead of focusing solely on academic achievements, they highlight extra-curricular achievements and community involvement, celebrating the whole international student ‘experience’. To enter, each student was asked to write a personal ‘letter home’ in English, detailing the extra-curricular achievements that help make their time in the UK so rewarding.
Kirsten Gill, International Officer at the University of Bristol, said: ‘Bristol has had a finalist in this competition for three years running now, which in itself is testament to the strength, diversity and vibrancy of our student community. Ed was deservedly selected as regional finalist in this national competition, in particular for his work in establishing the UK’s first student film festival, Screentest.’
Speaking at the awards ceremony, the Rt Hon Lord Neil Kinnock, Chair of the British Council, said: ‘The students’ stories have been detailed, perceptive, and sometimes very moving, personal accounts. All have been impressive pieces of work, providing thousands of fine examples of how international students engage in an almost endless variety of extra-curricular activities to add value to their education, and to enrich their personal development, their confidence, independence of mind and understanding of humanity.’
Lord Kinnock added: ‘The intelligence and insights that their stories have shown, and the vitality with which they have seized their opportunities makes me certain that they will flourish and – because of that – they will each bring their productive share to a future of progress and understanding.’
Yu Huai Zhang, from China, was named overall International Student of the Year 2007.