Hadil Khalil, who is graduating with a first-class degree in Criminology, has shown resilience and determination in overcoming the barriers that prevented her from accessing higher education. Having faced uncertainty for many years, Hadil secured a sanctuary scholarship at Leeds Trinity, which is one of 80 higher education institutions in the UK (out of over 260) that offer financial aid for students who are refugees, asylum seekers or have limited leave to remain in the country. 

Hadil explained: “When I first arrived in this country, I didn’t speak a single word of English. Being an asylum seeker comes with a weight that is hard to describe. I faced discrimination, experienced racism, received threats, and lived in constant fear. And on top of that, there were so many barriers that controlled my life, my opportunities, and my future, including going into university.” 

Despite her limited university options, Hadil found at Leeds Trinity an environment where she could reach her potential, believe in herself, and achieve her goals. 

“One thing about Leeds Trinity that truly sets it apart, is that, when I got there, I finally found a place where lecturers and staff put students first,” Hadil said. “In a world where education can sometimes be only about rankings, discipline, or chasing prestige, here, it's always been about people.” 

Hadil added: “In the past, I was told I wasn’t going to make it to university. I was known as a person who's not academically clever, so it pushed me down a lot. But when I came to Leeds Trinity, I felt like they truly saw my potential. I don't think I'll ever find this anywhere else.” 

Professor Tony Blockley, Head of School of Criminology, Investigation and Policing at Leeds Trinity University supervised Hadil’s dissertation and helped her reach her goal of achieving a First. He said: “Hadil is an incredibly hardworking and determined individual, and her journey is a powerful example of what can be achieved when someone believes in themselves.  

“She has shown resilience, intelligence, and drive throughout her studies, and I have no doubt that she will go on to achieve anything she sets her mind to. She has the ability and strength to make a real difference, not only in policing but in inspiring others to follow their ambitions.” 

Praising Tony’s unwavering support, which positively impacted her studies, but also her self-confidence and wellbeing, Hadil said: “If I wasn’t sure of myself, he made me believe in myself. When other people told me getting a First in Criminology is rare, Tony said that if I wanted a First, we’d make it happen. He gave me the emotional strength to achieve that goal.” 

Becoming a detective has been a lifelong dream for Hadil, who has always wanted to make a change in the world and help people. She hopes other Muslim women will feel empowered by her story and seeing her in uniform will send a powerful message about what hijabi women are capable of, despite societal stereotypes. 

“If I’m seen as a police member, it might change the idea that Muslim women can’t work or do certain things. If I’m a policewoman in the uniform, doing my job, protecting my community, it will hopefully make people reconsider the stereotypes they believe about Muslims,” Hadil explained. 

Hadil’s hard work and determination will not stop with Graduation, as she is in the process of securing a job in the police. Her advice to other students is to never let others bring them down and always seek to surpass their limits. 

“Once you graduate, you might think this is it. But there's still so much more you can do. If you think you’ve reached the highest level, create an even higher one and aim for it. Don't stop. Don't limit yourself. There's always something more you can achieve,” Hadil said. 

Criminology at Leeds Trinity University is ranked 4th in the UK and 1st in Yorkshire for academic support (National Student Survey 2024, in the subject of Sociology). To find out more about studying Criminology at Leeds Trinity, visit the website.