undergraduate of the year awards

2024

Winners

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The
Female
undergraduate
of
The
year
Abigail Bilsland
Philosophy and Politics
|
University of Edinburgh
Abigail is studying Philosophy and Politics at the University of Edinburgh. She is a highly driven student with a particularly keen interest in feminist theory. Outside of academic life, Abigail has been involved in logistics and event organising since high school - being part of the executive for TEDxYouth, the 24HourRace, and Model United Nations conferences. At university, she sits on the secretariat of Scotland’s biggest MUN conference. Abigail enjoys learning new things, and many weekends can be found (slowly!) working towards her gliding solo certification. In her free time, Abigail enjoys trying new baking techniques and crocheting.
finalists

Abigail Bilsland | The University of Edinburgh | Philosophy and Politics

Alina Liedtke | University of Cambridge | Engineering

Chloe Martinez | University of Bath | Mechanical Engineering

Ella Perinpanayagam | University College London | Natural Sciences

Grace Lord | University of Exeter | Economics

Larkin Walters| Queen Mary University of London | Law

Rohia Jallow | City, University of London | Economics and Econometrics

Sophia Mikou | University of St Andrews | Computer Science

Tala Clark | Royal Holloway, University of London | Physics

Vrajti Shukla | University of Liverpool | Business Economics

The
LGBTQ+
undergraduate
of
The
year
Alfie Davis
Geography
|
University of Oxford
Alfie is an undergraduate student at the University of Oxford, studying Geography. Alfie has been the Senior Welfare Officer of Oxford University LGBTQ+ Society for two years, and is the current Co-Chair of Oxford Class Act Campaign, and the College Reps Officer for Oxford LGBTQ+ Campaign. Recently elected Vice-President of the Oxford Student’s Union, their work has centred uplifting LGBTQ+ and Working-Class voices, authoring policy and fighting for change on their behalf. Academically, they recently wrote their dissertation on LGBTQ+ walking techniques as an everyday form of self-preservation, self-expression, and resistance.
finalists

Alex Powell | Coventry University | Mechanical Engineering and related

Alfie Davis | University of Oxford | Geography

Amir Javadi | London South Bank University | Law

Erin MacInnes | University of Dundee | Law

Hannah Auld | University of Sheffield | Journalism

Lukie Jew | Durham University | Physics and related

Megan Horner | University of Huddersfield | Film Cinematics and Photography

Rudi Ellis-Jones | University of Cambridge | Archaeology

Shikha Patel | University of East London | Computer Science and IT

Tobi Ajibola | University of Cambridge | Classical Studies

The
Black Heritage
undergraduate
of
The
year
Grace Chukwurah
Law
|
University of Warwick
Grace is a second-year law student at the University of Warwick, who is full of ambition and enthusiasm to fight for the cause of human rights all over the world. She also extends her focus on the disparities faced by ethnic minorities in the UK. A petition that she opened for the problem of their treatment at NHS has been recognized by parliament. Following personal experiences to racial differences, while on a study stay in China she is committed to rewriting the global perceptions of black excellence. Grace also volunteers as a tutor for children from minority groups and part of the pro bono women's project at university, which helps women in distress from the local community.
finalists

Ashleigh Garnett | SOAS University of London | Japanese and Politics

Awa Bittaye | University of Nottingham | Sociology

Esele Okondo | University of Oxford | Medicine

Grace Chukwurah | The University of Warwick | Law

Kendra-Jean Nwamadi | Cardiff University | Medicine

Peter Otto | Cass Business School | Finance

Sabrina Abdow | City, University of London | International Political Economy

Sahra Faqi | nUniversity of Reading | Consumer Behaviour and Marketing

Sarah-Grace Akande | University of Cambridge | English Literature

StephenFajemilusi | University of Cambridge | Natural Sciences

The
Software Engineering
undergraduate
of
The
year
John Sykes
Computer Science
|
University of Edinburgh
John is a penultimate-year Computer Science student at the University of Edinburgh. His interest in software started when he joined a student-led group developing a snake bite reporting app in Ho Chi Minh City. Recently, he has fallen in love with programming language design and implementation, he hopes to enrich his understanding of the topic in his final year. Outside of his studies, John loves to learn about food science via cooking as well as understand food’s cultural history.
finalists

Ahzaz Tahir | Queen Mary University of London | Computer Science

Durmus Yusuf Sayin | Durham University | Computer Science

John Sykes | The University of Edinburgh | Computer Science

Lucy Robertson | University of Cambridge | Computer Science

Phillip Daniel | University of Bristol | Computer Science

Ryan La | University of Birmingham | Mechanical Engineering

Seojeong Hong | University College London | Computer Science

Wai Man Ho | The University of Edinburgh | Computer Science

The
Management
undergraduate
of
The
year
Kendaa Cameron-Chavannes
Business and Management
|
Royal Holloway University of London
As a second-year Business and Management student at Royal Holloway University of London, Kendaa thrives on bridging the gap between theory and practice, applying the dynamic interplay of management principles in real-world settings. She is passionate about leadership beyond titles and finds fulfilment in uplifting others' voices, notably through her role as an ESOL English Tutor for Refugees and The Demonstrate Project. Embracing challenges beyond her comfort scope, she was honoured to contribute to the Insurtech Insights Conference earlier this year and understands the importance of sustainable value. With a commitment to continuous growth and social impact, Kendaa strives to perpetuate positive change in marginalised/underrepresented communities.
finalists

Bhavya Sharma | Imperial College London | Electronic and Information Engineering

Eesaa Simat | De Montfort University | Finance and Investment

Erin Cruickshank | University of St Andrews | French and Social Anthropology

Gabrielle Saxby | Lancaster University | Business Management

Harry Robbins | University of Bath | Management

Jashan Ball | University of Bath | Management

Kendaa Cameron-Chavannes | Royal Holloway, University of London | Business and Management

Mudassar Shaban | University of Birmingham | Law

Niall O'Kane | Queen's University Belfast | Business Management

Samuel Bennett | University of Bath | Business

The
Engineering
undergraduate
of
The
year
Lily Gregory
General Engineering
|
King's College London
Lily is a second-year general engineering student at King's College London, blending her academic rigor with a deep commitment to community engagement. As Sponsorships Manager for KCL Womxn in STEM, she's driven by a mission to enhance D&I in engineering. Her leadership extends to initiating a mentorship scheme for women and non-binary undergrads, illustrating her dedication to nurturing future generations. Lily also channels her passion for education through tutoring, imparting knowledge to younger students in maths and science. Her interest in management consulting and participation in school outreach programs underscore her multifaceted approach to engineering, setting her on a promising trajectory as a future leader in the field.
finalists

Andrew Huey | University of Oxford | Engineering Science

Antony Di Gerlando | University of Southampton | Aeronautics and Astronautics

Bailey Raven | University of Sheffield | Aerospace Engineering

Haris Mughal | Loughborough University | Aeronautical Engineering

Karthik Krishnan | Imperial College London | Aeronautical Engineering

Lily Gregory | King's College London | General Engineering

Matt Smith | University of Sheffield | General Engineering with Energy and Sustainability

Oliver Harper | University College London | Biomedical Engineering

Oscar Lazaro | Imperial College London | Mechanical Engineering

Xander Thane Mills | University College London | Electronic and Electrical Engineering

The
Future Actuary
undergraduate
of
The
year
Oliver Crook
MORSE
|
University of Warwick
Oliver is a penultimate-year MORSE (Mathematics, Operational Research, Statistics, and Economics) student at the University of Warwick. He aspires to become an actuary and is excited by the challenges that the profession offers. With a penchant for analytical problem-solving, he has excelled in extracurricular activities such as the UKMT Mathematical Challenge, earning several gold awards and qualifying for the Maclaurin Olympiad. At Warwick, he served as a First-Year Representative for the Statistics Society, organising events, and providing academic support to fellow students. Alongside his academic pursuits, Oliver is passionate about bouldering, salsa dancing, and the mathematics behind sports betting.
finalists

Aidan Chim | Heriot-Watt University | Mathematics with Statistics

Georgia Ioannou | University of St Andrews | Mathematics

Harriet Stratton | Loughborough University | Mathematics

Jennifer Ravenhall | Durham University | Mathematics and Statistics

Kesaagini Kugathasan | Queen Mary University of London | Actuarial Science

Kirsten Winyard | University of Bath | Mathematics, Statistics, and Data Science

Layla Merrett | University of Glasgow | Economics and Mathematics

Livsharan Kaur | University of Sheffield | Mathematics

Oliver Crook | The University of Warwick | MORSE

Tudor Badea | University of Warwick | Mathematics

The
Celebrating Resilience
undergraduate
of
The
year
Ozlem Kesgin
Electronics and Electrical Engineering
|
University of Edinburgh
Ozlem is a penultimate-year Electronics and Electrical Engineering student at the University of Edinburgh. A recipient of the prestigious IET Future Talent Award, Ozlem has demonstrated exceptional potential in the engineering field. Her influential research on DDoS mitigation strategies, conducted at the University of Oxford, is set for publication — reflecting her commitment to impactful and innovative engineering solutions. While she is passionate about engineering, she is even more dedicated to improving representation and support for women and disadvantaged individuals within the field. She actively mentors underrepresented groups, particularly disadvantaged students. Her own experiences overcoming significant barriers have inspired her to support these individuals, fuelling her commitment to enhancing diversity and representation in engineering.
finalists

Amber Shawsmith | University of Exeter | Politics, Philosophy and Economics

Antonio Gato | University of Oxford | Modern Languages

Dineshtga Frandsen | University of Cambridge | Law

Emrullah Yiğit | University College London | Economics and Business with East European Studies

Laith Shareiyat | University of Oxford | Engineering Science

Pia Gupta | King's College London | Economics and Management

Ruby Jones | University of Manchester | Law

Sharon Benson | The London Institute of Banking & Finance | Finance, Investment and Risk

Yassine Serrhini | Imperial College London | Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Zeynep Ozlem Kesgin | The University of Edinburgh | Electronics and Electrical Engineering

The
Maths, Physics and Economics
undergraduate
of
The
year
Shirom Aggarwal
Economics
|
University College London
Shirom is a final-year UCL Economics undergraduate who ranked 4th of 450+ students whilst working full-time as a private equity off-cycle analyst. He completed summer internships in restructuring and corporate insolvency, and in consulting with McKinsey & Company. Shirom is also an investment associate at Bloomsbury Capital, UCL’s largest, real-money investment fund, and the Chairman of Indian Society, the UK’s largest cultural society, where he led a committee of 25 students to win UCL’s ‘Best Event of the Year’ award. In his spare time, Shirom engages in volunteering activities across London and takes a keen interest in running and music.
finalists

Angus Spence | University of St Andrews | Mathematics and Financial Economics

Jake McMillan | University of Oxford | Philosophy, Politics and Economics

James Hill | Durham University | Theoretical Physics

Samantha Whitten | Queen Mary University of London | Economics

Shirom Aggarwal | University College London | Economics

Shrey Joshi | University College London | Economics

Siddiq Islam | University of Oxford | Mathematics and Statistics

Thomas Bedforth | University of Oxford | Physics and Philosophy

Zsanett Frei | University of London | Economics and Politics

The
AI and Robotics
undergraduate
of
The
year
Simeon Cromarty
Mechatronics and Robotics
|
University of Leeds
Simeon is a dedicated engineering student at the University of Leeds, pursuing an integrated Master's degree in Mechatronics and Robotics. His standout project is the development of an automated pick and pack cell, focusing on machine vision and robot arm manipulation, showcasing his knowledge and passion for deep learning in a real-world scenario. To further his practical experience, he completed an undergraduate placement at Jaguar Land Rover, where he explored various engineering roles from systems and software to electric drive unit testing. Alongside his studies, Simeon is a committed sportsman, playing for both the university football and futsal teams, and has served as the social secretary for the futsal club. He also works part-time as an online GCSE maths and science tutor, helping younger students achieve their full potential.
finalists

Anas Jehani | University of Kent | Artificial Intelligence

Danila Kozlov | University College London | Robotics and Artificial Intelligence

Devayan Patel | University College London | Robotics and Artificial Intelligence

Jamie Setch | Newcastle University | Psychology

Lolézio Viora Marquet | Imperial College London | Electronics and Informations Engineering

Louise Allan | Abertay University | Computing

Milan Wood | University of St Andrews | Computer Science

Muhammad Hamzah Chariwala | Imperial College London | Design Engineering

Simeon Cromarty | University of Leeds | Mechatronics and Robotics Engineering

Sophie Pettit | Anglia Ruskin University | Automotive Engineering

The
Celebrating Neurodiverse Talent
undergraduate
of
The
year
Tilly Sawyer
International Business
|
Loughborough University
Tilly is a 3rd-year International Business student at Loughborough university. This year she had the amazing opportunity to undertake a placement year at PwC within the Inclusion, culture and Wellbeing team. Passionate about personal growth, Tilly has embraced her role by actively seeking out mentoring, technology training, attending talks and participating in events. She hopes to continue to upskill herself throughout the rest of her academic and professional journeys. Tilly is a true Loughborough student and adores sports, playing Waterpolo for a club in London, Netball and squash! She also helps to tutor disadvantaged students and volunteers with Crisis UK.
finalists

Cameron Gunn | Universityof Stirling | Psychology

Daisie-Anne Ellis | Durham University | Chemistry

Emily Cassidy | University of Southampton | Chemistry

Jasmine Fournier | University of Leeds | Biology

Joshua Searson | University of Leeds | Electronics and Computer Engineering

Mel Beresford | University of Bristol | Economics and Management

Millicent Wenlock | University of Stirling | Environmental Science

Noah Kennedy | King's College London | History and Political Economy

Richard Beardshall | University College London | Mathematics

Tilly Sawyer | Loughborough University | International Business

The
Future Building Surveyor
undergraduate
of
The
year
Tom Longbon
Nottingham Trent University
|
Building Surveying
Thomas is a 2nd Year Building Surveying Student at Nottingham Trent University. Prior to coming to university, Thomas worked for Mears in the Northeast of England helping house Asylum Seekers for the Home Office. In this rewarding work he learned the good the Built Environment can bring, and the impact stable social housing can have on individuals and communities. After this he wished to continue this knowledge base further to help more people and wished to continue that training at university. Thomas’ next goal is to work within social housing and charities to raise the standard of social housing. Thomas also plays a Defenceman in Lacrosse for Nottingham Trent University, claiming undefeated season victories in both years he has studied at NTU.
finalists

Annie Bamford | University of the West of England, Bristol | Building Surveying

Aryan Bassi | University of Westminster | Construction Management

Benedict Hixon | University of Portsmouth | Building Surveying

Chidi Anusiem | Nottingham Trent University | Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management

Jack Straker | Loughborough University | Construction Engineering Management

Safie Sellu | University of East London | Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management

Tom Longbon | Nottingham Trent University | Building Surveying

Zsoka Odor | Nottingham Trent University | Building Surveying

About the event

We are delighted to announce our 2024 Undergraduate of the Year Finalists!

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