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15 Aug 2007 11:37:56
Miss Black Britain is encouraging youngsters who haven’t already got a place at university to pick up the phone and go through clearing like she did.
Hannah Osunsina, from Peckham, South London, is still on a high after being crowned the prestigious title last month. The 20-year-old, who will be entering the second year of her Law degree at the University of Bedfordshire this September, grew up in the same streets as Damilola Taylor, and is a family friend of Michael Dosunmu, who was gunned down at his home in February.
She admits she nearly didn’t go to university. She was working as a model and had taken a year away from education, but knew it was time to make a decision about her future, and decided to choose university instead of modelling.
Hannah said: “I did well in my Law A level, but didn’t get the grades I had expected in my other subjects. I phoned up the University of Bedfordshire’s clearing line, they listened to my personal circumstances, my career ambitions and my commitment to the course, and they offered me a place.
“I would like teenagers in my community to see someone who has studied hard, gone to university and is trying to make a something of their life. Young people feel pressured to join gangs or drop out of school and all too often turn to petty crime out of boredom or frustration – I want to get the message out that if I can do well at university and change my life, so can they.”
Growing up in an area which has repeatedly hit the headlines over gang crime and violence inspired her to become a barrister. She grew to hate gang culture and gun crime after witnessing the devastation it causes to families and communities. She would like to be a role model and ambassador for young black children in her community and encourage youngsters to stick with education and give university a try.
She concluded: “Going to university was one of the best choices I have made. Moving away from home gives you the life experience to mature into an adult. The lecturers understand the pressures you face at university, and provide advise and support to do well with your studies.”
Applications to the University of Bedfordshire can be taken right up until the first day of term and offers can be made over the phone. For clearing enquiries call the Clearing Hotline on 0800 013 0925.
Latest news» 2007» August» Miss Black Britain encourages youngsters to head for higher education
