XCEL STUDENT OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2009
Mustafa Sarkar
Loughborough University
MSc Psychology of Sport and Exercise
WINNER OF
Xcel Sports Student of the Year
Xcel Sports Student of the Year award
Currently studying for a Masters degree, Mustafa has already excelled by gaining a first class honours undergraduate degree. When undertaking a postgraduate diploma he won a scholarship and is now having one of his research papers considered for peer review and publication. He is also a previous winner of the Loughborough University Development Trust Prize; has worked with past Olympic medallists, the FA, the NHS and the London Organising Olympic Committee.
Besides pursuing his ambition to become a chartered Sport and Exercise Psychologist, Mustafa has also found time to coach cricket with school children; be nominated for the Hannah Community Prize; climb five UK mountains for charity and run the London Marathon, where he raised another £2,350.
Mustafa explained what he thinks is the secret of his success:
Being a high achiever is a combination of a number of factors. For example, everyone talks about hard work, determination and persistence. They are all very important qualities but other characteristics which might not be as obvious is the importance of learning everyday and being the best that YOU can be (it’s not about beating others). The most satisfying thing for me is that I know I have so much more to learn if I want to reach the top of my field and I’m very excited by that thought alone.”
Mustafa’s idea of a life-work balance seems to be to try and do everything. The fact that he is also so committed to community is so valuable.”
Luke Turnell, Director of organisers, SR Media.
