Newly-wed couple win the same Bristol University scholarship against one in 10,000 odds

A newly wed couple have both won a Bristol University scholarship, beating one in 10,000 odds.

Husband and wife, Maria Aguillon and Santiago Muriel, are part of one per cent of applicants who were successful in receiving Bristol University’s Think Big scholarship.

Just days after their wedding in their home country of Mexico, the newlyweds both found out the exciting news.

Since introducing the Think Big scholarship in 2017, the University of Bristol has aided more than 1,000 talented students across the world to study at the university through the funding.

Upon arriving in Bristol, Maria, who is working towards a master’s in education, says: “I think it was a game changer to study abroad with someone that believes in you and also inspires you – he inspires me by being who he is, but also by the way he looks at me and encourages me.”

Maria and Santiago first crossed paths in 2019 in Mexico City, after growing up 220 miles away from each other. The couple shars a similar upbringing, both of their mothers undertook jobs at private schools in order to fund their tuition. Later in life, Maria and Santiago have bonded over their ambition to make a positive impact upon the world.

Credit: The University of Bristol

Santiago, who is completing a master’s in computer science, values the importance of their loved ones, adding: “Our families were a key part of getting us here, their unconditional support and constant encouragement were defining.”

The pair has enjoyed settling into Bristol and Maria reveals: “As a couple, it is great to know that we are capable of achieving things together and that we make a good team.”

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They are “loving” the city and exploring what it has to offer together.

Santiago explains: “We are sharing this experience in another country and another culture, but at the end of the day, we are together, and for me that is everything.”

Maria has also praised her new professors and learning environment, she say the teaching staff “are really skilled, and they stimulate my intellectual curiosity.”

The university’s pro vice-chancellor for education and students, Professor Tansy Jessop, has expressed her well wishes: “Maria and Santiago wowed us with their applications, and we are really pleased that they are enjoying their time at Bristol.

“Both have shown exceptional talent and dedication to their studies, and we are thrilled to be part of their journey.”

The university has already opened applications for this year’s Think Big Scholarship. Maria and Santiago’s advice to others applying: “Trust the process – you don’t lose anything if you try!”

Featured image via University of Bristol