I was preparing to go to France for my year abroad as part of my university studies at Canterbury, where I was reading anthropology with French. The French university that was to play host to me needed me to pay for my accommodation, and a deposit, up front, before they could reserve me my meagre garrett!

I was already struggling with my finances in the UK (I had just paid my tuition fees and rent on my Canterbury room), without having to pay bills in advance in France.

A fellow Old Blue mentioned the BSB and mooted the possibility of asking them for a loan. After my initial request to the BSB, I was amazed at how quickly the process worked; in no time I was able to secure my accommodation in France.

The great thing about the BSB is that it is not a bank, but a friend you can rely on in times of need. After my year abroad, I was able to complete my final year and post- graduate teacher training year, without the worry of expensive repayments hanging over me. The BSB was understanding and supportive throughout, and as soon as I started working, I was proud and happy to be able to repay the loan, at a rate which I could afford, without interest.

I hope in the future to be able to return the favour. Without the BSB’s help, I might not have made it to France, and might never have been able to pursue my chosen profession: as a French teacher!