Student survey winners pocket cash prizes

Four lucky Teesside University students are celebrating winning cash prizes after completing a national student survey, giving feedback on their experiences and courses.

All students from the University who completed the government supported National Student Survey between January and April this year were automatically put into a prize draw. Third year applied sports science student Sophie Steel, 21, won £500, and third year crime scene science student Neil Gunstone, 33, collected £250 after their names were drawn out the hat first and second respectively. Sophie, from Middlesbrough, said: 'Our lecturers had told us what a good opportunity it was to have our say, so I wanted to help by giving feedback. As a third year student, I feel I have a more of a rounded perspective on most aspects of the University and the positive experience it provides in all areas of student life. I’m really enjoying my time here and am looking forward to a career in nutrition in the future.'

She added: 'I would recommend taking part in the survey next year to anyone. I’m thinking of treating myself to a weekend away with my winnings.'

Runner-up prize winner Neil, of Dundee, said: 'My lecturers also had an influence on me, as they told me that views and opinions I gave in the survey could feed directly into my own course for future students.

'I came a long way to study here, largely due to the excellent reputation Teesside has as only one of very few places to offer a crime scene degree, and I haven’t been disappointed. 'The survey was important to me as a platform to shout about my experiences both academically and socially and let everyone know what a great University this is. The survey only took me five or ten minutes, so there was no reason not to take part.' Professor Eileen Martin, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Learning and Student Experience) at Teesside University, said: 'Teesside University is committed to providing students with an excellent experience. The National Student Survey is one of a number of measures that we can reflect on as a University to support our ongoing ambitions to enhance the experience we offer to all our students. It is also serves as a helpful reference for prospective students when making their choice of universities, alongside our website, prospectus and open days.'

There was also good news for occupational therapy student Nancy Agnes Quinlan and social work student Debra Husband, each won £100 for being drawn in joint third place.

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