A student from the USA studying at the University of Glasgow has won a major national award, thanks to his inspirational story of life living in Glasgow.

Bradley Jones, 27, was one of only 12 students across the country to gain a top honour in the International Student Awards ﾖ a national awards scheme run by the British Council.

The Awards recognises overseas students who have achieved personal ambitions, enjoyed new experiences, learnt new skills or made an important contribution to their institution or community since coming to the UK. Over 2,300 students, representing 145 nationalities, entered the Awards by writing letters, as if to friends or family back home, describing their experiences of life in the UK.

Bradley's love of sport has led him to discover many different aspects of Scottish life and culture. He volunteers at a Friday night baseball clinic for children in a deprived area of Paisley, helps children in refugee communities in Sighthill and is also a member of the Glasgow Stars baseball team. As a postgraduate history student, Bradley has founded an Early American History postgraduate society and has been invited to contribute chapters to two forthcoming books.

In his entry letter for the competition, Bradley wrote, "I have been given the opportunity in Glasgow to not only pursue a quality education, but also to experience a vast array of cultures and people, with ideas and perspectives different from my own."

Bradley was presented with his Silver Award at a winners' ceremony at the Kensington Roof Gardens, London, hosted by TV news journalist Krishnan Guru-Murthy. As well as a trophy, Bradley received £1000 prize money.

Media Relations Office (media@gla.ac.uk)

The British Council is the UK?s international organisation for educational opportunities and cultural relations. It has offices in 216 towns and cities in 110 countries worldwide.

For more information Mike Findlay in the University Press Office on 0141 330-8593 or email:m.findlay@admin.gla.ac.uk.

First published: 19 May 2004