Cymone Geddes

Cymone Geddes travelled from Jamaica to study at Sussex. She is a recipient of the Mrs Emily O Akinluyi Scholarship, which was established to support female undergraduate students from more challenging socio-economic backgrounds who are studying science, mathematics or business degrees. Cymone says that thanks to the Scholarship she’s had more time to study and pursue other interests, making the most of her time at Sussex. Cymone graduates with an Economics BSc this summer. This is her story.

“I was born in Jamaica and spent most of my early years there. I did not do A levels, instead I completed the Caribbean equivalent known as Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Exams (CAPE), studying Biology, Mathematics, Communication Studies and Sociology. I’m not the first in my family to go to university; my mum has a degree and my brother will be graduating from the University of Brighton this summer.

“I had my heart set on coming to Sussex having visited as part of my degree application process - I really loved the environment and atmosphere. I was also attracted to the variety of modules which were on offer within my chosen field.”

So, what inspired Cymone to study Economics?

“I chose to study Economics because the subject marries both business and psychology in a unique way, it offers an in depth understanding of how markets and human behaviour intersect. For most of my life, I have appreciated both areas independently and welcomed the opportunity to study the crossover of these fields.”

Cymone came across the details of the Mrs Emily O Akinluyi Scholarship online. She says:

“I was hesitant to apply for the Scholarship at first, but soon decided that I could gain so much if I became the recipient. When I found out I’d been awarded it, I was shocked. There are so many amazing students to choose from at Sussex, and I was honoured to be picked. It’s provided a lot of financial relief during my studies and gave me more time to study and pursue other interests.”

Cymone explains exactly how the Scholarship has benefited her, saying:

“The scholarship money was incredibly useful in several ways; it helped me to buy textbooks and other supplies for my course, it meant I could afford to participate in an economics trip to Belgium, and it supplemented my expenses during summer school in China. Additionally, I was able to spend time volunteering and getting to know members of the Moulsecoomb community market. Overall, the Scholarship meant I could complete my degree without heavy financial strain. Beyond the financial support, meeting Tosin Akinluyi in person was invaluable.”

The Mrs Emily O Akinluyi Scholarship was established by Sussex alumna, Tosin Akinluyi. Tosin explains its genesis:

“The Scholarship is named after my paternal grandmother because she was a strong, formidable woman. It’s a wonderful feeling helping people achieve their potential – people who might never have gone to university otherwise. I'm also aware of how much more could be done. There should be many more scholarships. People don’t realise that the smallest amount of money helps. They just don't understand what a difference it makes to a student. I have met amazing, inspiring women who were recipients of the scholarship I set up, and they are now accomplishing so much and already giving back or ‘paying it forward’.”

So, what does the future hold for Cymone now that she has completed her undergraduate degree?

“I hope to return to Sussex in September to pursue a Development Economics MSc. Ultimately, I wish to impact policy, mainly within the field of education and labour economics. I hope to continue working in areas of research and assisting in addressing issues in a targeted and meaningful way.”

Having benefited herself, Cymone is vocal about the hugely positive impact that a scholarship can have on students, and would even consider supporting one herself one day. She says:

“Scholarships are becoming increasingly important as it is growing harder for government resources to cover the full cost of education. A scholarship can make the difference between a student completing their degree or not. Spending time with those you are funding can help you to see the tangible benefits of your support. Whether it is a small or large amount, it will go a long way in improving student outcomes.

“I would be happy to support a scholarship at Sussex one day if I had the financial means, or potentially mentor a Sussex student via Sussex Connect.”

And in a final word, Cymone talks about what studying at Sussex has meant to her on a personal level:

“I have had the opportunity to meet people who take pride in having attended this university, and I too am glad to say that I have successfully completed my undergrad and now fall within that category. It has been an incredible journey at Sussex, filled with opportunities for growth and learning. I am deeply grateful for the support I have received and look forward to giving back to a community that has given me so much.”

Scholarships change people’s lives for the better. Will you consider supporting one at Sussex?