STUDENT OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2008
Megan Phillips
University of Leicester
WINNER OF
Xcel Law Student of the Year award
Xcel Law Student of the Year award
Megan Philips giving a speech on receipt of her award
Megan Phillips from the University of Leicester was a joint winner in this year’s Xcel Law Student of the Year award. Megan won the award for achieving incredible success in her degree course despite suffering from Asperger Syndrome.
Megan is described by her tutors as one of the hardest working students they have ever had. Not only does Megan have an aptitude for legal studies but she asks interesting questions and thinks deeply about the subject. With her natural talent combined with grit and determination, Megan achieved a First Class Honours degree and is now pursuing postgraduate study.
Winning this award means a lot to me because people I know with Asperger Syndrome find it hard to complete university, but I managed it, with a First in Law and this award.
At the end of her first year at university, Megan was diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome which causes difficulties for social interaction. For many students, this diagnosis would make them want to give up as Megan explains: “Winning this award means a lot to me because people I know with Asperger Syndrome find it hard to complete university, but I managed it, with a First in Law and this award.”
Megan has shown great resilience and has refused to let her condition be an obstacle to her success. During her course, Megan did client interviewing, mooting and debating which is a considerable accomplishment for somebody who suffers from Asperger Syndrome. For Megan, winning the Xcel award is an inspiration to others, “It can show to other people with Asperger Syndrome that it is possible to go to university and succeed.”
During her time at university, Megan has learnt to live on her own, made friends and has helped other students with their revision. In turn, Megan wished to acknowledge the help that she had received, “At the award ceremony I had the opportunity to thank the people who have supported me through my course, without whom I probably would not have completed my degree.”
On winning her award, Megan said, “I was very excited to win and think my trophy looks very good. I hope winning the award will help me to get a job after I have finished my postgraduate course at the College of Law, Birmingham.”
Interview by: Emily Crane
