International Women’s Day: The Impact of the Women’s Giving Circle Scholarship

This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the Women’s Giving Circle, a network of successful alumnae and friends of Newcastle University committed to empowering female students. Women remain underrepresented in certain subject areas, and the Women’s Giving Circle Scholarship plays a vital role in breaking barriers and inspiring young women who aspire to pursue careers in these fields.

Breaking barriers for female students  

The Women’s Giving Circle Scholarships are awarded to female students in underrepresented subject areas, many of these subjects are in the Science and Engineering disciplines (often referred to as STEM subjects). Women continue to face systemic challenges in STEM, with only 35% of university STEM students being female and fewer than 30% of scientific researchers worldwide being women. Gender biases in education, lack of role models, and limited networking opportunities often deter women from pursuing STEM careers.  

The impact on our students

Natasha, a second-year Marine Biology student, was among the first recipients of the Women’s Giving Circle Scholarship.

"After meeting with members of the Women's Giving Circle, I left feeling truly inspired, knowing that barriers to a STEM career shouldn’t hold me back and that I’m not alone in this journey. Many on my course come from more affluent backgrounds, and at times, I feel I have to work harder to keep up. But this scholarship has shown me I have a network of support and people I can turn to for advice.  

I shouldn’t fear being a woman in STEM, I should be proud. Thank you for this incredible opportunity to succeed in a field I’ve always been passionate about." 

Welcoming our newest scholars  

We are thrilled to introduce some of the most recent recipients of the Women’s Giving Circle Scholarship, who are all in their first year:  

• Charlotte, a Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering student, was inspired to pursue engineering after a transformative experience with the Tall Ships Youth Trust. She chose Newcastle University for its welcoming atmosphere and state-of-the-art facilities.    
• Shuyi, a computer science student, has been passionate about technology from a young age and values the balance of logic and creative problem-solving in her field. 

Creating a legacy of support 

Beyond financial aid, the Women’s Giving Circle Scholarship fosters a community of mentorship, encouragement, and empowerment. Alumnae not only provide funding but also share their experiences, offer career guidance, and inspire the next generation of students.

The scholarships have provided more than just financial relief. It has given these students confidence, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.

To all members of the Women’s Giving Circle, thank you. Your generosity is inspiring the next generation of trailblazers.

Together, we are building a lasting legacy of support, empowerment, and progress.

If you are interested in finding out how you can get involved in the Women's Giving Circle or support the scholarship programme, please get in touch by emailing alexa.charlton@newcastle.ac.uk.