The John Miller Scholarships are given to eligible medical students, including those in their 5th or 6th year of study.

James Bibey (Downing 2020) is a 5th-year medical student and was one of the students to benefit from a scholarship. Speaking about the impact it has made on his time at Cambridge he said:

“Studying a six-year degree can be challenging. This is especially true in the final two years when NHS bursary funding takes over from student finance (and is often significantly less generous)—this decrease towards the end does not correlate with the change in costs of studying, which are increased by considerations such as elective opportunities, additional travel (such as for placements), and the increased cost of living.

I have been fortunate to be supported by the College in a variety of ways during my studies, not least financially. I have always enjoyed my studies at Downing. The support takes away a huge mental strain. It allows me to focus more on my studies and enjoy life whilst at University but also be freer to consider additional opportunities like electives and research. With support such as this, I have always felt that opportunities adjacent to studies are a decision I can take solely for the benefits it will bring to my skills and other people involved rather than primarily for the financial reimbursement.”

Professor Guy Williams, Downing Senior Tutor said; “I am delighted that so many of our students have benefitted from a John Miller Scholarship, it will make a real difference to their day-to-day living costs. Thanks to John’s generosity he has, and will, continue to make a tangible difference to our current and future generations of students and we remain extremely grateful.”