Teesside University graduate Jess achieves academic goal

As England’s Lionesses continue to go for glory in the Euros 2025, Teesside University graduate Jess Mett is emulating their footballing success.

She was able to combine her passion for football with her academic studies while completing the BSc (Hons) Crime Scene Science as one of the first three scholars to be awarded the Beth Mead Scholarship.

Jess’ success comes as Teesside University continues to support high-performing athletes and nurture exceptional sporting talent, through a number of sports accreditations held by the University.

Jess, 20, from Middlesbrough, said: “One of the main reasons I chose Teesside University was the Beth Mead Scholarship.

“It involved mentoring from Beth, which was beneficial in being able to ask her for advice and questions about her career.

“The scholarship also provided gym membership, access to sports facilities including sports massages and physiotherapy, which was beneficial in helping me train and compete at the highest level I can.”

During her degree, Jess was called up for the England Universities Sport squad, which led her to join the English Universities Sport national team in training and fixtures, providing opportunities to compete at the highest domestic representative level.

She said: “Being part of the squad involved training camps where I trained with and competing alongside top players from other universities. I was also involved in matches against teams from Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.”

Jess added: “Teesside University also stood out to me because of its connection to Cleveland Police with crime scene science graduates.

“I enjoyed the hands-on, practical experience of the degree, constantly learning and frequently practicing the basics needed in the forensic industry. I’ve always had a strong interest in criminal investigation, forensic science and intelligence-based work and I wanted a career where I could make a meaningful impact.?

“I’m hoping to continue and progress my career in football, but if that doesn’t work out, I’d like to become an intelligence analyst either in the military or private sector. Teesside University has provided me with the academic knowledge and practical skills to have a strong foundation to take into work industry.?

“The University library was a lifesaver for late night study sessions, while the Olympia sports building allowed me access to the gym and 3G pitch to develop my football ability, physically and technically.? I really felt supported for my passion for football outside my degree studies.”

During her degree, Jess won the title of Female Athlete of the Year at the 2024 Teesside Sports Awards, which recognise the efforts and success of Teesside University students across multiple sporting disciplines.

Jess was also a treble award winner with Middlesbrough Women, collecting Players’ Player, Player of the Season, and Goal of the Season at the recent Middlesbrough Football Club End of Season Awards.

Among sports accreditations held by the University is the Emerging Talent Centre Programme, which has recently been reaccredited. with the FA Licence confirmed for the next three years. Teesside University is the only university in the country to hold a licence for the FA Emerging Talent Centre (ETC).

The Teesside ETC is the England Talent pathway providing an enhanced coaching centre for U12, U14 and U16 age groups, and allows players identified as having elite potential the opportunity to access appropriate levels of coaching and support alongside playing for their grassroots club. The aim is to produce female footballers of international calibre.

Will Jones, Head of Sport, said: “The accreditations demonstrate the University’s high-level service delivery and facilities, complemented by expert practitioners. This standard is implemented across projects and collaborations with partner organisations.”

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