The Convocation Undergraduate Student of the Year Award 2025, sponsored by Allstate, will be made to an undergraduate student who, at the time of nomination, is currently registered at Ulster University and, during their time here, has demonstrated 'significant personal achievement or a substantial contribution to University life, its students or the community.
Staff, students, or other interested parties can make nominations. They must be seconded by an academic staff member and come from a third party; students cannot nominate themselves.
The deadline for 2025 applications is Noon, Friday, 9 May 2025.
Award Eligibility
To be eligible for the award, the student must demonstrate achievement in at least one of the following areas.
1. Voluntary/Community Work
Example 1: The student worked with a voluntary or community organisation that made a substantial difference to the lives of the client group or community.
Example 2: The student contributed to improving study/living conditions for international students within the University. This could include initiatives to enhance cultural awareness, organising social events, setting up clubs/societies/community events.
2. Overcoming a Disability/Personal Adversity
Example: The student overcame a disability or personal adversity, which allowed them to become a role model for other students or contribute to improving the opportunities for students with disabilities to achieve their personal objectives. The latter could be through lobbying, representation, advocacy, or way-paving.
3. Personal Endeavour
Example: The student won a major academic prize
Selection Criteria:
To choose the winner, the selection panel will consider the following:
- The impact of the contribution made
- The significance of the achievement
- The level of disability/adversity overcome and the resulting impact on others.
The panel may ask for shortlisted students to attend an interview or give a presentation where there is insufficient information in the initial nomination form to make a final decision.