Solent University student named as ‘Student of the Year’ in the Rise Awards

A media technology student from Solent University is celebrating after being named student of the year at the 2021 Rise awards.

The Rise Up Academy is an outreach programme delivering broadcast engineering and technical workshops. Its intention is to inspire, educate and inform children and young adults about the pathways and career opportunities available to them within the broadcast technology industry.

Live Sound Technology student, Holly Van Der Rest, 21 from Maidenhead, was nominated by her lecturer at Solent University, Polly Hickling for her continued motivation and hard work as well as her involvement in the Rise Up Academy.

Of winning the award Holly said: “I’m so grateful to win the Rise Student of the year award, it means so much to a be graduating into an industry where there’s an organisation that represents gender diversity. Solent have of course been a major help in me receiving the award. If it weren’t for the lecturers' and technicians’ dedication and help in finding work placements and practical experience I wouldn’t be in the place I am today.”

Solent University Course Leader Polly Hickling said: “Organisations like Rise makes an enormous difference to graduating students confidence. The recognition and visibility of so many women's hard work and achievements is a fantastic thing to see and celebrate.”