Stormzy has been awarded an honorary degree from The University of Exeter to recognise ‘his remarkable contribution to society and extraordinary talent’.
The British rapper is the latest celeb to join the ranks in getting an honorary degree, alongside the likes of Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift and Sir Paul McCartney.
The 28-year-old was presented his degree at the University’s graduation ceremony on June 21, where he praised all the students receiving their degrees having the guts and the grit and the dedication that it takes to study for years’ and finish their degrees.
Stormzy speaks to Exeter graduates
During his speech to the graduating classes, Stormzy discussed his education history. He highlighted that he ‘didn’t have the same minerals that you guys have’ when recalling dropping out after his AS results.
Stormzy’s speech to the graduates is extremely inspirational as he addresses the hard road that they have fought to get to where they are sitting today.
This included a global pandemic, yet the students still have the determination and dedication to continue their studies and complete their degrees.
He told them: ‘It took a hell of a lot for you to get here today. Your journeys to get to this moment were hard-fought. The road you took was not easy. And this is coming from someone who tried to walk that exact same road and failed.
‘So from the bottom of my heart, I say congratulations, well done and you should all be so proud of yourselves, what you have achieved is incredible. Don’t let anybody downplay it and don’t let anybody undermine it. If you are sat in this room today you are worthy and you are brilliant.’
Stormzy awarded Honorary Degree:
He recalled what he felt when the university stated that they were given him an honorary degree. He said: ‘When I asked what exactly am I receiving this honour for I was told, and I quote, ‘It is in recognition of your outstanding achievements in the field of higher education, philanthropy and widening participation’, and I was like, ‘Rah boy… check me out. They’re calling lil’ old Mike a philanthropist.’
This highlights the down-to-earth and grounded characteristics that this extremely successful rapper holds. It has also been highlighted that a Stormzy scholarship has been created, which provides scholarships for black British students at the University of Cambridge.
This goes on to show the importance that Stormzy’s music has brought people and the huge impact and mark that he has left on the world.
So far from Stormzy’s scholarship scheme, six students have been directly helped, which goes to show that his thought behind this scholarship process is working.
