From the East Midlands to Edinburgh: Riveen prepares for life at university
Picture the scene. It’s 14 August 2025 and the room is buzzing with excited yet nervous A level students, eagerly awaiting their results. Amongst the crowds at Ashfield School in Kirkby In Ashfield are 20 students enrolled on The Access Project, along with their University Access Officer, Clare.
One of these students is Riveen. Applying to join The Access Project in Year 12, Riveen dreamed of studying Astrophysics. In addition to enrolling on our core programme, Riveen gained a place on our specialised Pathway for students applying for competitive courses.
And the hard work paid off! Riveen’s excellent results secured him a place to study Astrophysics at the University of Edinburgh, one of the most selective universities in the UK.
We caught up with Riveen about his time on The Access Project, and what going to university means to him.
“Consistent support system”
Riveen told us, “The best thing about The Access Project is the consistent support system within it, and the opportunities that come with it. I learned much of what I know about life at university thanks to the university visits organised by The Access Project. I met many people with various stories who have helped me gather a sense of belonging as I begin this new chapter of my life. In addition, my tutor sessions were very helpful in guiding me through my studies.”
“Clare, my University Access Officer [The Access Project mentor], was a particularly supportive presence in my life. She often checked up on me, shared reads that I might enjoy, and even took a great weight of supporting my integration as a newly immigrant student. I owe her my developed ease of navigating through life and studies alike. Clare supported me through the process of setting up access arrangements during my A levels, which was immensely reassuring as I no longer felt anxious about achieving what I deserve.”
Clare added, “It was a joy to support Riveen and the Year 13 cohort through their last two years at school, seeing them shape their plans and work hard towards them, both in and out of school. I wish I could fast forward a few years and see where they all are – such a buzzing hive of potential poised to fly off to greater things! The fact that so many got into top universities is especially gratifying, and I wish each and every one of them success and happiness.”
Hopes for university
Finally, Riveen spoke to us about looking ahead to university.
“I am most looking forward to the culture at university. Attending university remains one of the most anticipated stages of my life. The experiences and memories of these years will shape who I will be, even decades into the future. I aim for a career in academia, where I can be surrounded by what I love and contribute to it, whilst being on a constant path of learning.”
The Access Project helps young people from under-resourced backgrounds to achieve their academic potential and place at top universities. By donating to our programme or volunteering with us, you’re helping the country’s most under-resourced young people find their way to a brighter future.