From a fashion designer for FKA Twigs and Kendrick Lamar to Teesside graduate and lioness Beth Mead, universities train some of the UK’s brightest talents in arts and sport, including many whose parents did not go to university.

The UK is a science superpower, made possible by first-generation graduates who power our NHS and make groundbreaking discoveries that benefit the UK and the world we live in.

Communities and businesses across the UK benefit from first-generation students, they bring businesses to the local area and bring awareness and outreach to their individual communities.

University has the power to change lives – especially for those whose parents didn’t go to university. Getting a degree isn’t just about getting a good job. It’s also enriching for students by building their confidence, enabling them to change career and introducing them to new people and ideas.

Many first-generation students are from disadvantaged backgrounds where becoming an entrepreneur or charity leader might not seem like an option. For these graduates, university gave them the training and opportunities to unlock these careers.

Universities are equipping first-generation graduates with the skills to make a difference to the world: from the founder of a social enterprise bringing STEM to refugee children to the developer an entertainment platform for children with special educational needs.

Universities across the UK have help to develop first generation students into leaders in politics, law and advocacy, ensuring that there is fair representation and varied voices in some of the most influential parts of society.