Strathclyde People 2018
Eilidh McHugh wasn’t just an outstanding student, she was an exceptional person. Bright, determined, kind, and courageous. She worked hard throughout school and fought her way onto our competitive Pharmacy course. When she was at university, she continued to study hard – graduating with a First Class Honours Degree with Distinction in 2016. Her mother says it was the happiest day of Eilidh’s life.
In 2017, not long after starting her dream job, Eilidh died of a rare, aggressive and incurable form of cancer. But her memory and determination live on – in the form of the Eilidh McHugh Scholarship, which has raised over £100,000 for more than 20 scholarships. We spoke to Eilidh’s mum, Elaine, about what the scholarship means to her, what it would’ve meant to her daughter, and why she feels this type of funding and support is so vital to young people.
Cool to be clever
The name Eilidh means light, and that’s exactly what Eilidh did – she shone. She always had a smile on her face, she was beautiful inside and out. I always say she made it cool to be clever. Not just by being hard-working, but by balancing her studies with a social life, a job, and keeping fit.
She was moral, thoughtful and insightful – she always tried to do the right thing. She had a special gift for the way she made you feel, like you were the most important person in the world. Together, these qualities made her something quite special. And she remained this way right to the end, enduring her last journey with dignity and courage.
Student life
Despite being a grafter, the course was still very challenging. She worked hard, but she always performed best when she had a balance in her life. So she maintained a part-time job, a social life, and a passion for running.
She thoroughly enjoyed her time at the University of Strathclyde, and matured as she progressed. By the time she graduated, she was incredibly proud of what she had achieved through hard work. Her graduation day was the happiest of her life, and one of the happiest of mine and my husband’s, along with her sister Kerry – who also studied at Strathclyde.
What the scholarship means to Eilidh’s family
Everyone around us stepped up and gave us the strength we needed to turn our tragedy into something positive for other young people. I’m so proud of all the funding we’ve received for the scholarships. Because of this, young people who may have been accepted to Strathclyde but lack the finances needed will now be given a chance, without having to worry about that financial burden. As someone who had two daughters at university at the same time, I know how costly it can be!
But it’s not just about the money, it’s a safety net. Some funders actually want to support and mentor students career-wise after their studies. If that’s something people can offer, it’s more than just work experience – it’s a lifeline.
What the scholarship would’ve meant to Eilidh
Despite seeming like the most confident young woman in the world, Eilidh was shy. She was humble. She’d be very taken indeed by people focusing on her life, particularly areas that perhaps she didn’t find that remarkable! That’s just the kind of person she was.
I know she’d have loved meeting the students, which is something I’m really looking forward to myself. I hope they realise the opportunity they’ve been given and truly grab it with both hands.
Eilidh’s memory lives on
We’re doing lots to ensure Eilidh’s legacy lives on. It’s something we owe to her, given all that she stood for. So as well as the scholarship, we’re working with the Beatson Cancer Charity, who we’ve been in discussions with since last year. Our friends, family, employers, and more have embarked on all sorts of fundraising – from people using such talents as singing, to kilt walks, to hosting a ball. All events have been outstanding, and we’ve raised over £200,000 so far.
The money will go towards a digital hub, full of support, advice, and relevant information that’ll make those with cancer – and their loved ones – feel better, stronger, and more informed. Donate to this cause.
Our thanks
Strathclyde Principal, Professor Sir Jim McDonald said: “I am delighted that Strathclyde both contributes to and manages the Eilidh McHugh Scholarship Fund, which will undoubtedly provide opportunities and support for many young people hoping to attend our University.
“Eilidh was a wonderful young woman and an outstanding student who was a positive influence on everyone who engaged with her. Through the commitment and generosity of Eilidh’s family and those who have helped create the Scholarship Fund, Eilidh will continue to be a true inspiration for other young people.”
We want to thank Elaine McHugh for taking the time to speak with us. We wish her and her family all the best in their efforts to continue to raise money, raise awareness, and create change in Eilidh’s name.
You can make a difference
At the University of Strathclyde, we see first-hand the positive impact scholarships have on students. They support them to choose university and to thrive once they are here. Search ‘giving to Strath scholarships’ on our website to find out how you can help.
