First class honours for student who got big break by winning TV show

Caezaan Keshvani, 20, from Mumbai, won his place studying biomedical science at Sheffield University in the Airtel Scholar Hunt: Destination UK show.

His prize, worth 55,000 in total, was awarded after he completed five stages, including a subject exam, an interview, quizzes and competitive tasks to test candidates' skills during the programme, which was screened by New Delhi Television in 2007.

Now he is celebrating earning a first-class degree.

He said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here in the UK and studying at Sheffield University. This was my first time out of India and I really didn't know what to expect. I have made lots of friends and I have become much more independent. Although my degree was challenging I found it incredibly interesting, particularly the third year where I was able to specialise and carry out research. My tutors at the university have supported me every step of the way and I am incredibly grateful for their help and guidance. This has been such a fantastic opportunity and one that I will never forget."

He is now going to State University in New York to begin a PhD in regenerative medicine.

Prof Matthew Holley of the Department of Biomedical Science said: "Caezaan has been an inspiration. He has shown just how much a student can achieve in terms of academic and personal development throughout a three-year degree and has made substantial contributions to student life and to the wider community."