Why Students Are Being Paid £2,000 to Play Computer Games
BBC News
As parents prepare for their children's university journey, discussions about finances and living costs intensify. Yet, millions of pounds in scholarships and bursaries go unclaimed by students who might not be aware of the available support.
This year, the University of Roehampton introduced an esports scholarship, offering more than 100 awards so far. The program recognizes undergraduate and postgraduate students who excel both academically and in video gaming, treating it as a competitive sport with spectators.
Esports Scholarship Details:
- Students must demonstrate academic progress and gaming prowess.
- They are expected to participate in weekly university tournaments and represent Roehampton at live events.
- Minimum rankings in major games are required, with applications also considered from those close to the threshold, especially with significant online followings.
Inspiring Stories
Cameron Dray, a former esports scholar, discovered Roehampton's offering through its scholarship program. Inspired by similar initiatives in the US, he researched and found that while the university initially offered £1,500, their performance and popularity led to an increase to £2,000.
"This money was vital as it allowed me to study in a costly city without needing part-time work," Dray shares. He emphasizes transparency in the scholarship requirements, encouraging students to explore every available opportunity to reduce student debt and financial stress.
Thomas Cole, known online as "Pac," an esports player specializing in Trackmania, agrees that unique scholarships like Roehampton's can be a game-changer (pun intended) for university students, easing financial burdens and fostering academic focus.