Scholarship Stories: Gabriela Jozefowicz

In Year 8, Gabriela set her sights on Warwick, a dream that seemed out of reach. But through the Warwick Scholars access programme, Gabriela was given a chance — coupled with her enthusiastic determination, she’s never looked back. Her confidence has grown with every step and it’s all thanks to you.

Despite ambition and hard work, circumstances can sometimes work against us. Gabriela discovered this first hand when her mum’s Master’s degree in Poland wasn’t recognised in the UK after they moved here. It made her determined for her own achievements to be acknowledged, and so she set her sights on Warwick – a dream that became more out of reach as her school struggled with poor performance, requiring government intervention.

“You might be the greatest mind, but if you’re lost in difficult circumstances, it’s hard to find your way.”

A new path opened up for her when her school emailed about the Warwick Scholars access programme. Gabriela joined the programme in sixth form, receiving tailored support, including one-to-one tutoring and mentoring from a Warwick student.

“The mentoring and tutoring were amazing — especially the extra support I received in English, which I was determined to make my strongest subject since it was what I wanted to pursue at university. I also met other Warwick Scholars at events which created a real sense of community and made me feel more prepared and far less anxious about starting university.” 

She finished her A-levels with three Bs, a testament to her hard work. Though this put her below Warwick’s standard entry requirements, the Scholars access programme recognises the effort and commitment of its scholars. Wanting all those who complete the programme to succeed, Warwick provides scholars with a guaranteed offer of between 2-4 grades lower than the standard entry requirements.

It made all the difference – not just in giving her the chance to attend the university she’d long dreamed of, but in showing her that she was seen, capable, and deserving of that opportunity.

The dream becomes reality

The support of the programme didn’t stop there. As a Warwick Scholar, Gabriela received a 50% tuition fee waiver and a bursary to help with on-campus accommodation and travel. She also has priority access to work and community engagement opportunities, which have boosted her confidence.

“I used to be anxious and quiet but supporting open days and UCAS fairs through the Warwick Welcome Service, along with making phone calls for the student fundraising team, has made me more confident and capable. Talking to prospective students and alumni has really made a difference.” 

Gabriela studies English Literature and Creative Writing - a course that felt unique and right for her.

“I’ve always loved books – that’s how I learned English. When I saw creative writing was part of the degree it felt like something I could enjoy and build a future around. It also allowed me to stay connected to a world that’s always felt comfortable and genuinely interesting.”

And new opportunities unfold

Gabriela’s time at Warwick has taken her across Europe.

With support from a short-term mobility grant, she attended a summer school in the Netherlands, exploring game design and development – an experience that brought together her love of writing and video games.

“We made our own video games and played each other’s at the end of the week – it was so fun. As a writer, it showed me there’s a place for me in the CreaTech industry - writing game dialogue and item descriptions. Opportunities like that are rare without a programming background, so getting a taste of the industry was really exciting.” 

This year, she completed a study abroad year in Germany, supported by funding from the Turing Scheme and her Warwick Scholars benefits. Not only has her time abroad supported her studies and broadened her prospects but so has her involvement with Warwick’s student newspaper The Boar.

“I started at The Boar as a Deputy and now I’m the Editor of the games section. It has made me realise that I want to pursue an editorial role after I graduate.” 

Now preparing for her final year, Gabriela hasn’t forgotten the support that helped her get here. Someday, she hopes to follow in the footsteps of alumni and supporters like yourself, helping others access the same life-changing opportunities that shaped her own journey.

“Your generosity truly makes a difference — you’re impacting real lives. I’m only here because I was given this amazing opportunity, and I want others to have the same possibility. That’s why I’d like to help others too – so everyone has a chance to succeed, no matter where they come from.”