Graduation will take place on Thursday 19 July at the Lowry Theatre near MediaCityUK with ceremonies streamed live via the University of Salford digital platforms.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank a number of people who have supported me over the last few years. My university experience has been full of ups and downs and to have finally got across the finishing line is a very emotional moment.

The support of my family has been unwavering. My parents, Chris and Sarah Ransom, have travelled from Surrey to Salford on a number of occasions to show their support and I would certainly not have been as successful without them. My grandparents have also backed me relentlessly. My grandma in Surrey and my nan in Middlesbrough have always been there to reassure me in times of trouble. I am so blessed to be able to share 'big news' with them regularly and their love and support is incredibly humbling.

I must also mention my dear friend Cheryl D'Cruz, fundraising manager at the Lisa May Foundation in Farnborough. We have worked together a lot over the last four years and her sheer warmth and energy has bought such joy and hope to my university experience. Finally, thanks to my partner Andrew. His encouragement and devotion during a tricky final year has been phenomenal. As a consequence, I have gained real stability in Manchester and look forward to the next few years in this wonderful city. Here's to the future!

There are countless other people who have supported me from day one who I really do appreciate. Many teachers, youth workers, counsellors, advisers and extended family members have helped me get to where I am today for which I am very grateful.