Kate Aldridge, a final year student studying MSci (Hons) Mathematics and Physics, has been awarded this year’s Chancellor’s Prize. She will receive the Prize at the University’s Summer Award Ceremonies on Wednesday 4 July.
The Chancellor’s Prize was established in 1992 through the generosity of Lord Kearton, the University’s second Chancellor. It is awarded annually to the best final year undergraduate student who demonstrates academic excellence together with a contribution to the life, academic reputation and general work of the University.
The Committee was impressed with Kate’s consistently high academic results representing first class grades on every unit throughout the programme.
Her academic achievement is complemented by her very successful involvement in departmental activities, including leading reviews of departmental practice and chairing the Saff-Student Liaison Committee.
She has taken on the role of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) ambassador and set up a peer mentoring scheme for first year students.
Kate has also contributed significantly to the general life of the University through her work with international students and students from under-represented backgrounds.
She has been an International Student Mentor, a Conversation Mentor for international students, a Senior Student Ambassador/Outreach Ambassador and an International Student Helper.
On the social side, Kate has been Chair of the juggling society Gravity Vomit and organised a large number of juggling and circus skills performances and training sessions.
She has also given outstanding service to the community by acting as an e-mentor with Brightside for gifted and talented students and is a volunteer with Age UK, providing companionship and assistance with basic tasks for an elderly lady who is registered blind.
The Committee considered that the range of Kate’s involvement, her willingness to lead or provide support to projects as required and her outstanding academic achievement make her a very worthy recipient of the prize.
Kate said: “I’ve had an incredible time at Bath and never would have thought four years ago that I’d have the chance to be involved in so many great activities.
“Being nominated for, let alone winning, the Chancellor’s Prize is a huge honour, and to me shows how far hard work and good time management can get you!
“I’m so grateful for all the support I’ve received from my Department, my Alumni Fund scholarship and the Students’ Union over the years. They, and many others, have really helped me get the most out of my time here.”
Dr Fran Laughton, Director of Teaching and Resources in the Department of Physics, nominated Kate for the award.
She said: “Kate is truly an all round superstar! She is exceptionally able academically, and she has also contributed in so many ways to the Department, the University and the wider community – I don’t know how she has found the time to fit it all in!
“She has been a valued member of our Department during her four years with us, and we all wish her well for the future.”
