Budding entrepreneur scoops university prize (From Cotswold Journal)

Budding entrepreneur scoops university prize

3:10pm Thursday 7th June 2012 in Business By Mike Pryce

A STUDENT who admits he struggled with A-levels has been named the University of Worcester Business School’s most promising entrepreneur of the year after scoring top grades and 100 per cent attendance.

The award is based on student performance in the small business management module and was won by Simon Park, who received a prize donated by the Federation of Small Businesses.

Simon is on the cusp of completing his BA (Hons) business, management and marketing degree and is expected to walk away with a first-class degree.

He was nominated for the award by his tutors after receiving straight As across his assignments, achieving a 100 per cent attendance record and proving his entrepreneurial flair in a group task.

Presenting the award, Ian Priest, vice-chairman of FSB Worcestershire, said: “Simon has clearly worked very hard while at university.

“His success demonstrates that our young people are ready to step into the world of work and bring new levels of dynamism to the business world.”

Simon, aged 22, who is from South Milford, near York, said he was delighted to have won the award.

“I had no idea about it until I got an e-mail saying I had won,” he said.

“It’s very humbling to think that my tutors put me forward. At A-level I struggled but since coming to university I seem to have thrived and have been able to really apply myself.

“I came to Worcester as it’s a nice, supportive university and I am proud to represent it.”

Tim Maxfield, director of business development at the University’s Business School, said: “I taught Simon in his first year and so I’m delighted to now see him win this award.

“In the business school we encourage entrepreneurial flair and get students thinking creatively in a number of ways.

“The previous two winners of this award have gone on to great things.”