Archie O'Brien

My name is Archie O’Brien, and I am a 17-year-old student who has a deep passion for two things: music and rugby. As I look to the next stage of my life, I am excited by the prospect of combining my two interests by studying music at Brunel University while playing and training for the Ealing Trailfinders Rugby Club.

Creating music has always interested me, and I’ve played the drums throughout school and achieved my Rockschool Grade 6. In my last year at school as part of my Higher Music qualification I created a composition using both drum and bass guitar. I achieved two National Progression Awards in Music recording and Music business which was equivalent to a Higher qualification which I enjoyed thoroughly, as I've always enjoyed making my own music. I was asked to play in the School Brass band as lead drummer in my 5th year of school, which I enjoyed as it gave me the skill to play in a band setting in front of an audience.

My desire to study music at Brunel is driven by a genuine curiosity to delve deeper into these technical and theoretical aspects, and I am particularly drawn to the university's strong reputation in music making.

Parallel to my music has been my dedication to rugby. Rugby has always been a part of my life and I've been playing since I was 4 years old. I have played at many different levels from captaining the U18s 1st XV for my school and trained for the Scottish National U18s and played for Edinburgh U18s. Rugby has taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, and resilience as a loose head prop and back row player. When I was captain, it was my job to lead by example, not with words but with actions. My style of leadership is to be the one who sets the standard for our effort in training and on match day. As captain, I would work to ensure that we are a strong unit, a team that plays for each other and for the pride of North Berwick.

I have also played for Mussleburgh RFC who play at League 1 in the Scottish league championship, at a senior level as back row which has given me the next level in my development as I'm playing with men who have been playing rugby for many years. I’ve had the privilege of playing alongside many amazing players. I've learned that a great team is built on respect, hard work, and communication. I believe my experience and my position on the field have given me a unique perspective on what it takes to win.

This past summer, I had the opportunity to channel that passion in a new way by helping coach the Under 14's rugby camp. Stepping into a coaching role was a new challenge for me. Instead of focusing solely on my own game, my attention shifted to the development of the younger players. I learned how to break down complex techniques into simple, easy-to-understand steps, and to provide positive feedback. This experience taught me a great deal about responsibility and more importantly patience. The lessons I learned while coaching have not only made me a better player but have also given me new skills on how to coach and feedback effectively. I am excited to carry this experience forward in my future rugby endeavors.

My interest in travel also connects to my overall passions. My travels have allowed me to experience diverse cultures and sounds. I inter-railed through Europe with 4 of my friends, after working at the Open Arms Hotel in Dirleton, East Lothian for the past 2 years, which funded my trip. My travel allowed me to switch off for a brief moment before diving straight back into pre-season rugby training for Mussleburgh.

My part time job involves working in a busy hotel kitchen. As a kitchen porter I had the opportunity to shadow one of the chefs who trained me also in the basics of food hygiene and preparation. I have recently been promoted to the front of house which will involve more interaction with the public. In my last year of school, I passed my driving test and saved for my own car. This has further developed my independence to get to rugby, work and school commitments.

I am excited by the prospect of combining my academic studies in music with the high-performance rugby environment that Ealing Trailfinders offers. I am confident that my time at Brunel University, combined with the opportunity to train with the Ealing Trailfinders, will provide the ideal environment for me to thrive both academically and athletically. I am a dedicated individual who is eager to learn and contribute to both the university and the rugby club. This scholarship would be an incredible opportunity to pursue my two greatest passions at a high level, and I am determined to make the most of it. Thank you for your consideration.