Staying at Surrey wasn’t guaranteed: Liam’s Story
When Liam White arrived at Surrey in 2019 to study Psychology, he was drawn not just by the academic offering, but by the promise of something more personal
Liam White
“I chose Surrey because, unlike other universities I looked at, it spoke about its community and the support it gives its students,” Liam says. “I saw everything Surrey did for students in hardship, for those facing mental health challenges, the support for clubs and societies – all of those things that go beyond the classroom. I knew then that Surrey was where I belonged.”
From day one, Liam threw himself into campus life. He joined societies, made friends, and even took to the stage in Strictly Come Surrey with the Ballroom and Latin Dance Club. But halfway through his course, his Surrey experience nearly came to a premature end.
When life took an unexpected turn
In 2020, as the Covid-19 pandemic upended life as we knew it, Liam – who is estranged from his family – had no choice but to remain in university accommodation at Battersea Court. With part-time job opportunities drying up almost overnight, his financial situation quickly became unsustainable.
“I’d already taken out the maximum student loan and had dipped into my overdraft,” he recalls. “Suddenly I was faced with a really stark question: can I afford to stay at university?”
That’s when Liam turned to the Student Money Team, who encouraged him to apply for support from The Forever Surrey Fund – an emergency financial lifeline made possible by generous donations from Surrey alumni and friends.
“It meant everything. That support gave me the breathing space to stay, reintegrate into university life, and get back on track,” Liam says. “It gave me the time to rebuild – academically, socially and emotionally. He also reflects on the stigma students often feel when facing hardship.
“There’s this idea that you have to be fiercely independent when you go to university. But even when you’ve prepared well, have a job lined up, and budget carefully, life still happens. It’s okay to need help.”
For Liam, that help changed everything. It gave him the chance to continue his degree and ultimately shaped the path he’s on today, including being elected President of the Students’ Union.
If I hadn’t had that olive branch, I probably would have dropped out
“If I hadn’t had that olive branch, I probably would have dropped out. Instead, I finished my degree and found a voice as a student advocate. I found purpose.”
Thank you for standing behind Surrey students
Liam’s story is just one example of the life-changing impact of The Forever Surrey Fund, and it’s thanks to alumni and supporters like you.
The pressures students face today are very real. The rising cost of rent, food and transport means many are struggling to make ends meet, even while working part-time. In fact, the average maintenance loan now falls more than £500 short of covering essential monthly expenses.
- Rent in Guildford has risen by £270 a month since 2022, averaging £623 a month.
- 76% of students say the cost of living is affecting their academic performance.
- Many are forced to sacrifice societies, social life, or even their studies to manage financially.
And yet, in the face of these challenges, your support has ensured that students in crisis don’t have to navigate alone. Because of The Forever Surrey Fund and the people who give to it, students like Liam have a safety net. One that helps them stay focused on learning, growing, and contributing.
Your support hasn’t just provided financial help – it’s preserved potential, protected ambition, and made sure no student has to abandon their degree because of hardship beyond their control.
A story worth sharing
Liam’s gratitude shines through in a recent interview reflecting on his time at Surrey. From student life to leadership, and the pivotal role of The Forever Surrey Fund, Liam shares how the support he received helped him stay, and succeed.
Thanks to the kindness and foresight of alumni and friends, The Forever Surrey Fund continues to be there for students when they need it most. Whether it’s helping with a sudden expense, covering essentials, or simply ensuring a student can stay enrolled, your support makes the difference.
From Liam, and from all the students whose journeys have been shaped by your generosity – thank you.
Because of you, the Surrey experience continues to be one of community, compassion, and opportunity.