Tag Archives: International students

How to prepare for a Chevening Scholarship interview

In this blog current Birkbeck Chevening scholars, Ahmed Alaa Yaqoob Maki, MSc Entrepreneurship student from Iraq and MSc Business Innovation students Aslan Saputra from Indonesia and Ramata N’Diaye from Mali, tell us how they tackled the Chevening interviews and give advice to this year’s applicants.

How did you prepare for your Chevening interview?

Ahmed Alaa Yaqoob Maki:

Ahmed Alaa Yaqoob Maki

First of all, congratulations on reaching this stage! To get started, go back to your application and focus on your essays and the key points you highlighted. Be ready to discuss any part of your application in detail, including your career goals, leadership experiences, and how you plan to use the Chevening scholarship to contribute to your home country. Furthermore, prepare to demonstrate your skills in leadership and networking through real examples from your past experiences. Most importantly, be knowledgeable about current events and issues in your country, the UK, and globally, especially those related to your field of study or professional sector.

In addition, you can find lots of mock interview opportunities. Practice with mock interviews to simulate the interview environment. This can help you become more comfortable with speaking about your experiences and achievements confidently. Feedback from these sessions can be invaluable.

Ramata N’Diaye:

Ramata N’Diaye

To prepare for my Chevening interview, I embraced a thorough approach centered around self-reflection, research on the Chevening scholarship, and diligent queries on my Top 3 universities. I immersed myself in understanding the Chevening Scholarship’s core objectives, values, and the attributes they seek in scholars. This foundational knowledge was crucial for tailoring my responses to align with Chevening’s mission.

I then reflected on my personal, academic, and professional experiences, identifying clear examples that demonstrated my leadership qualities, networking abilities, and commitment to positive change.

Recognizing the importance of staying informed, I kept abreast of current global and regional issues, particularly those relevant to my field of interest and my home country. Practicing mock interviews was also a pivotal part of my preparation, allowing me to refine my answers, improve my delivery, and build confidence.

Aslan Saputra:

Aslan Saputra

In my country, several people who had been shortlisted for Chevening formed small groups to be able to practice together and share the latest information about the Chevening application.

When I entered the shortlisted stage, I knew the story I brought to the application attracted the hearts of the Chevening committee, so my task during the interview was to retell it more enthusiastically and in more detail so that my charisma became stronger and more promising.

What advice would you give to this year’s shortlisted candidate on how to ace their interview?

Ramata N’Diaye:

For this year’s shortlisted candidates, my advice is to deeply understand what Chevening stands for and thoughtfully reflect on your journey and aspirations. Articulate your vision clearly, demonstrate how you embody the Chevening values, and be prepared to engage in discussions on current affairs with insight and poise. Remember, authenticity and preparedness are key to acing the Chevening interview.

Aslan Saputra:

My advice is to not bring new stories to the interview. Just elaborate on the essay that you wrote previously, and show your unique and strong character. Don’t be too stiff, and learn how to tell stories that are interesting and fun.

Ahmed Alaa Yaqoob Maki:

When answering questions, consider using the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. This method helps you deliver comprehensive and compelling answers.

Further information

 

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Celebrating the Lunar New Year and Year of the Dragon with friends and colleagues at Birkbeck  

Zhuoxin Han is a second year LLB Law student. In this blog they share their experience of attending the Lunar New Year event held by the university.  The Lunar New Year is the most important festival celebrated by many countries in Asia. The influence of the Spring Festival has been spreading worldwide; for instance, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, the UK, and the US have begun to join in this celebration. You may have noticed the huge number of red lanterns and decorations in London’s Chinatown if you happened to pass by recently. Or maybe the red celebration signs on the street -screens, as well as dragon illustrations on newspapers or magazines? The Evening Standard, for instance, printed a super cool red dragon as its cover on 10th Feb. 

The Lunar New Year is associated with old myths and traditional customs. Every family undergoes a thorough cleaning while approaching the new year, meaning they are ready to sweep out bad things or moods and be ready to accept the incoming good fortune. In the past, people would practice calligraphy and write their own versions of couplets; today people tend to purchase ready-made couplets. Another custom is using red paper cut outs and couplets to decorate windows and doors respectively. These pretty ornaments make people feel content and joyful. 

This year, the Lunar New Year event was jointly held by Birkbeck Global Recruitment Team and La Yong Jackson, from the International Student Administration team. As student Ambassadors, Ziyao and I were appointed to assist this event.

Before Birkbeck participants arrived, our team members cleaned and decorated the locations where the celebrations were due to take place in the main Malet Street building, the Canteen on the fifth floor, and the George Birkbeck Bar on the fourth floor. We also managed to create a ‘photo corner’ for guests who wish to take pictures, using our phones or Polaroid instant cameras provided by staff for everyone to use. 

The most popular custom during the Spring Festival must be the Red Pocket! The bright red reminds people of the warmth of family, the way everyone once gathered around, talking at the fireplace. I’ve sometimes wondered if that’s why Santa’s hats are red. 😊  

This year, Birkbeck prepared red pockets containing a free lunch voucher, golden chocolate, plus a delicate Birkbeck College badge for everyone who registered for the celebrations. As an international student, I found myself impressed by all these thoughtful details. It was probably a time-consuming task to prepare, and felt special. I was also impressed by the canteen staff, who had a really busy day, preparing food for both the regular daily menus and also the extra Asian cuisines for our celebrations. Sammie, Yunmeng, Ziyao, and I helped with guest check-in; everyone looked surprised and happy when they received the red pocket. It was nice to witness their genuine smiles. After lunch in the canteen, we moved to the George Birkbeck Bar.

Here we enjoyed three main activities: red paper cutting with traditional calligraphy or painting, voting for the best dresser and finally a quiz with prizes to be won! One girl drew a vivid dragon and received compliments with people taking pictures of her painting, and she even won a prize for it. Another lady who dressed in a traditional long dress with a beautiful pearl necklace won the best-dressed prize. She looked surprised when she received the award and gave a big, charming smile.

The quiz session was exciting; questions were related to customs and special products of different countries. It was a well-balanced quiz that included single choice, multiple choice, and matching. Each question had a strict time limitation which added to the excitement; everyone was holding their breath. When the results were released, I was a bit shocked to realise I had won! To be honest, I had guessed some of my answers! My colleague was searching for the mysterious winner: Han, which is my shortened nickname. She moved through the room super-fast, and I was chasing her, trying to explain that I was the one she was looking for. Finally, she turned around and noticed me chasing her, which made everyone laugh. There were two others who had come in with high scores, so as the three winners we gathered and had our picture taken. After this, lots of students stayed longer to socialize with each other, and we took lots of photos to remember the happy memories!

The Lunar New Year marks the end of the cold, dark winter and celebrates the beginning of a hopeful spring; it is a symbol of the final rest after a busy or tiring year; a chance to reunite with family members and recharge energy. People use this opportunity to catch up with those dear to them, preparing and getting ready for the next following year. This event which created a sense of community and togetherness, really helped capture these feelings.

As a final note from me, I wish you all a happy Lunar New Year! May the Year of the Dragon bring you good fortune! 

龙年吉祥!1 龍年吉祥!2 

Below is a list of well wishes for the lunar new year in a variety of languages, so feel free to spread the well wishes in your own language!

Albanian: Le të sjellë Viti i Drakonit fat për ty!

Arabic: “مهما جلب عام التنين لك من الحظ السعيد!” (mahma jalaba ‘aam altinin lak min alhaz alsaeid)

Bengali: “ড্রাগন বছর তোমার ভাগ্য আনুক!” (Ḍrāgana bôshara tōmāra bhāgya ānuka!)

Bosnian: “Neka godina Zmaja donese sreću tebi!” (same as Croatian)

Croatian: “Neka godina Zmaja donese sreću tebi!”

Czech: “Ať ti Rok Draka přinese štěstí!”

Danish: “Må Drageåret bringe dig held og lykke!”

Dutch: “Moge het Jaar van de Draak je geluk brengen!”

Estonian: “Loota, et Draakoni aasta toob sulle õnne!”

Filipino: “Sana’y magdala ng suwerte sa’yo ang Taon ng Dragon!”

Finnish: “Toivotan sinulle onnea Lohikäärmeen vuonna!”

French: “Que l’Année du Dragon vous apporte bonne chance!”

German: “Möge das Jahr des Drachen Ihnen Glück bringen!”

Greek: “Ας φέρει το Έτος του Δράκου καλή τύχη σε εσένα!” (As férei to Étos tou Drákou kalí týchi se eséna!)

Hebrew: “שנת הדרקון תביא לך מזל טוב!” (Shnat hadrakon tavi lecha mazal tov!)

Hindi: “ड्रैगन का वर्ष आपको शुभकामनाएं लेकर आए!” (ḍragan kā varṣ āpako śubhakāmanāeṁ lekar āe!)

Hungarian: “A Sárkány Éve hozzon neked szerencsét!”

Icelandic: “Má Drakársárinn koma þér heppni!”

Indonesian: “Semoga Tahun Naga membawa keberuntungan bagi Anda!”

Italian: “Che l’Anno del Drago ti porti fortuna!”

Japanese: “龍の年があなたに幸運をもたらしますように!” (Ryū no toshi ga anata ni kōun o motarashimasu yō ni!)

Korean: “용년이 당신에게 행운을 가져다 주기를 바랍니다!” (Yongnyeoni dangsinege haeng-un-eul gajyeoda jugireul barabnida!)

Kurdish: “Salê Şahmaran ji we re şans bidin!”

Latvian: “Lai Drakona Gads atnes tev veiksmi!”

Lithuanian: “Tegul Drakono metai tau atneš laimę!”

Malay: “Semoga Tahun Naga membawa keberuntungan kepada anda!”

Nepali: “ड्र्यागनको वर्ष तपाईंलाई भाग्य ल्याउनुहोस्!” (Ḍr’yāganakō varṣa tapā’īnlā’ī bhāgya lyā’unuhōs!)

Polish: “Niech Rok Smoka przyniesie ci szczęście!”

Portuguese: “Que o Ano do Dragão traga boa sorte para você!”

Romanian: “Anul Dragonului să îți aducă noroc!”

Russian: “Пусть год Дракона принесет вам удачу!”

Serbian: “Neka godina Zmaja donese sreću tebi!” (same as Croatian)

Spanish: “¡Que el Año del Dragón te traiga buena suerte!”

Swahili: “Mwaka wa Joka ulete bahati njema kwako!”

Swedish: “Må Drakens år bringa dig lycka!”

Thai: “ขอให้ปีมังกรนำโชคดีมาหาคุณ!” (kh̄ xih̄ pī mạngkrnăm chŏkh dī mā h̄ā khun!)

Turkish: “Ejderha Yılı size şans getirsin!”

Ukrainian: “Нехай Рік Дракона принесе вам щастя!” (Nekhay Rik Drakona prynese vam shchastya!)

Vietnamese: “Chúc năm Rồng mang lại may mắn cho bạn!”

More Information: 

 

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Meet the Chevening Scholar: Felix Hollison

Felix is from Soloman Islands, and studying LLM Pathways (Law and New Technology). Find out more about him, his remarkable path to Birkbeck, and his hopes for the future in the below Q&A.

What is your academic and professional background?

I am a lawyer by profession, and I graduated with a Bachelor of Law (LLB) at the University of the South Pacific (USP) in 2014. From 2015 to 2019, I worked as a Senior Crown Counsel in the Attorney-General’s Chambers in Solomon Islands. I was part of the litigation team within the chambers, and represented the Solomon Islands Government mostly in civil cases in the Magistrates Court, High Court and the Court of Appeal.

I joined the Central Magistrates Court of Solomon Islands in June 2019 as a Principal Magistrate and I still work there. Mostly, I deal with criminal cases such as robbery, burglary, assault related cases, sexual offences, human trafficking, theft offences, domestic violence, public disorder offences and other wide range of criminal offences.

Why did you apply for Chevening?

I applied for Chevening because I think this prestigious scholarship will be the vehicle for me to gain a world-class academic learning in the United Kingdom. It will also be a chance to enhance my leadership credentials, and the qualification will no doubt increase my marketability and employability globally.

What are your long-term plans after studying?

One of my goals is to help develop the jurisprudence of my country through my judgments, assist in law reforms where necessary and help Solomon Islands modernise its laws for the betterment of the country. Should I be given the chance to become a judge in the superior courts in the future, it will be a humble opportunity to be more influential in terms of the development of our jurisprudence.

Why did you choose Birkbeck for your studies?

I selected Birkbeck because it is a renowned university located in the heart of London that has transformed many lives for around 200 years already. More importantly, it provides the LLM with Pathways that I wish to study. It has a strong tradition of research across its departments of Law and Criminology with their internationally distinguished staff. The phenomenal changes that have taken place in technology will transform the way society operates in many ways that will have consequential effects on the law around the globe. My country is susceptible to the adverse effects of technological changes such as the erosion of democracy, climate change, cybercrime, biotechnology, political radicalisation and automation to name some.

Birkbeck is the ideal place to gain the necessary academic and professional knowledge to assist my country navigate through these uncertain times. Modernising my country’s laws to keep abreast with the technological and normative changes is a must, and I wish to be an agent of change in my country.

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Changing careers: from working in law to becoming a football agent

Iddi Yassin is one of the 21 Birkbeck 2023 Chevening scholars. In this blog Iddi shares his dreams about the future and the place Birkbeck will play in helping him achieve his goals.

Iddi Yassin

I’m from Tanzania and I’m studying MSc Sport Management at Birkbeck. In 2016, I was admitted to the Tanzania Mainland Bar Association, and I practised law as an Advocate of The High Court of Tanzania.

Chevening as a first step to a new career

I applied for Chevening in 2023 because it’s arguably the most prestigious scholarship programme with remarkable scholars and alumni from different social, economic, and political backgrounds.

My long-term plan is to become a football agent and manage young athletes in Tanzania to fulfil their career ambitions on the global stage. I hope the extensive skills and rich network acquired from my postgraduate studies will help me achieve this.

Why Birkbeck?

I chose Birkbeck due to its great reputation and popularity in the sports industry, as well as its great staff equipped with understanding of management, governance, and regulatory issues within the business of sports. Furthermore, studying in a cosmopolitan and business-oriented capital city such as London will give me exposure to a wide range of sports businesses, football clubs, and football regulatory authorities.

I’m confident that having the opportunity to study this course will help build my skills, competence, and expertise and provide me with a strong foundation as a football agent and sports consultant. I plan to participate fully in various long-term sports programmes including raising awareness to the public, writing articles, and publishing them. This includes being actively engaged and collaborating with the government and other stakeholders in capacity-building programs.

Further information

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Meet the Chevening Scholar: Ramata N’Diaye

Ramata N’Diaye is a 2023 Chevening scholar from Mali, passionate about Youth and Women empowerment and social entrepreneurship. Here, she shares her experience applying for the UK government’s prestigious scholarship and what made her choose Birkbeck.
A woman smiles and holds up a sign that reads 'I can't keep calm, I've been chosen for Chevening!'A short tour of my career serving youth and empowering women 

‌Entrepreneurship is a field that I’m very passionate about and been in for many years. As the Associate Director of Programs and Partnerships at Impact Hub, Bamako, I help young people realise their entrepreneurial dreams. I’m able to share my skills through training and coaching sessions held within the framework of various programmes. The programmes include, The Next Economy, which is made possible by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs; the Women Entrepreneurship and Leadership programme which is supported by the US Embassy; and Road2COP, a project financed by the UK Embassy in Mali that aims to provide an innovative and interactive platform for Young Malians in order to better understand the climate crisis. 

Through my work I have planned, designed and implemented more than 10 impactful programs for over 2000 young people and have helped raise more than 100 million FCFA in financing for local entrepreneurs. I think my experience in management within the the start-up and innovation sector helped with this a lot. Furthermore, in my role of communication Coordinator of the National Council of Business Incubators and Innovation Centres of Mali, I built valuable partnerships with various stakeholders and played a pivotal role in fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, leading me to be a key speaker at the World Bank Group Regional Youth Summit in May 2023. Finally, as women entrepreneurship advocate, I have published several articles on female entrepreneurship in Mali and participated in various forum on the topic as a panelist. 

Education and experience go hand in hand 

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Organisation Communication from Universiapolis, the international University of Agadir, Morocco, and I graduated from Nottingham Trent University with a Master’s Degree in Media and Globalization in 2017. I hold an Expert Certification in Business Support for Innovative Entrepreneurship from the Afric’Innov community, an investment readiness expertise certification from Investisseurs & Partners and finally a verified certification in Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies from Harvard University online courses. 

Chevening, entrepreneurship and economic development 

In a country threatened by political, economic and security instabilities like Mali, the private sector and entrepreneurship is the source of about 90% of the job creation and a major share of sources economic growth. It is therefore the locomotive that will help the country emerge and develop. I think it is crucial to support the development of the local private sector and to invest in digital transformation, to create enough attractive and secure income opportunities for young people – especially women. Stable sources of income will mean fewer young people considering the path of Islamic extremism or immigration. For women it opens the door to financial independence, thus reducing gender-based violence. The importance of this matter in a Malian context, stimulated my interest to apply for Chevening. 

I realized that a comprehensive education related to my expertise in entrepreneurship is essential in order to achieve my goals. I believe that gaining education in business development and innovation strategy combined with my experience, will help me acquire the capability to work in an extensive range of senior functional and general management positions across a wide spectrum of business sectors in Mali and the whole region. 

I hope to have a key role in preparing young entrepreneurs through my international Chevening network, education, and career experience. In time, I want this to open up more opportunities for entrepreneurship advancement in Mali.  

Mixing academic pursuits and active entrepreneurship at Birkbeck 

I chose Birkbeck for my studies for several compelling reasons. Firstly, Birkbeck is renowned for its commitment to providing evening classes, allowing working professionals like myself to pursue advanced education without compromising their professional commitments.  

Secondly, Birkbeck has a distinguished reputation for its emphasis on practical and applicable knowledge. The faculty at Birkbeck consists of accomplished professionals and scholars in the field, providing a valuable opportunity for me to learn from experts and gain insights from their practical experiences. 

‌Lastly, I was fortunate to receive valuable insights from my fellow Malian and Chevening scholar, Awa Touré, who studied her master’s degree at Birkbeck. Her firsthand experience and positive recommendations about the academic environment, faculty expertise, and overall atmosphere at Birkbeck played a pivotal role in influencing my decision to choose the university for my own master’s studies.  

 

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Meet the international student: Saheed Ajibola, from Nigeria 

Recipient of the International Excellence Scholarship, Saheed Ajibola came to Birkbeck to study MSc Geographic Data Science. Here he shares more about his background and experience.

Saheed Ajibola

Embracing Birkbeck’s unique flexibility 

One of the standout features of Birkbeck, University of London, is its flexibility. This institution offers evening and part-time courses, making it a perfect fit for students like me who want to strike a balance between studies and other commitments. It’s been a game-changer, allowing me to pursue higher education without completely disrupting my existing routines. 

Life in the heart of London 

Birkbeck’s location in London is a dream come true for many, including me. London is a diverse and vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, historical landmarks, and a global atmosphere. What makes it even more special is the multicultural aspect, fantastic networking opportunities, and the presence of esteemed educational institutions like Birkbeck. As a student, I’ve loved being able to immerse myself in London’s unique blend of academic excellence and cultural exploration.  

Tips for international students 

Adjusting to life in the UK can be both challenging and rewarding! Here are some tips to make the most of your time at Birkbeck and in the UK: 

  1. Familiarize yourself with the campus and resources: take the time to explore the university building and get to know the available resources, including libraries, study spaces, and student support services. This will help you feel more at home and better prepared for your studies.
  2. Build relationships: connect with your tutors, classmates, and fellow students. Networking can be incredibly valuable for your academic and future career endeavors. Attend seminars, workshops, and conferences related to your field of study as much as you can.
  3. Explore the city: London is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. From museums and parks to historical sites and cultural events, there’s something for everyone. Trust me; you’re in for a great treat.
  4. Seek help when needed: don’t hesitate to seek assistance if you face academic, personal, or health-related challenges. Birkbeck offers so many student support services, including counselling and academic advising, to assist students in various aspects of their lives.

Academic challenges and preparation 

While your academic journey at Birkbeck can be immensely rewarding, some courses may be academically demanding. Expect coursework that challenges you to think critically, engage with complex concepts, and demonstrate a deep understanding of the subject matter. To thrive, develop effective study habits, master time management skills, and refine your note-taking techniques. Remember, your tutors are there to guide you, and Birkbeck has numerous academic resources like sessions to improve study skills and essay writing. 

My favourite London gem: St. Pancras International 

Amidst the hustle and bustle of London, one place that truly captivates me is St. Pancras International. Its historical significance and architectural excellence make it a remarkable destination. This iconic location houses international, underground, and overground rail services, making it a hub of connectivity and as well as an architectural masterpiece. 

Future endeavors and aspirations 

While I haven’t worked in a field directly related to my course yet, I’m actively applying for jobs. I have my eyes set on the Graduate GIS Analyst Role at Stantec, where I hope to work after completing my course. The journey continues, and I’m excited to see where the future takes me! 

Further information 

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Meet the Chevening Scholar: Michail Le Roux, from South Africa

An esteemed attorney of the High Court of South Africa, Michail Le Roux joined Birkbeck to study LLM Law and New Technologies to help with his 10-year career plan. Here we get to know more about his background, his experience as a Chevening Scholar and Birkbeck student, and his hopes for the future 

A path that led to Birkbeck 

I’m proud to be an attorney at the High Court of South Africa. I’ve dedicated over seven years of my life to the captivating world of Blockchain & Digital Assets, and it’s been quite a journey, advising on numerous complex cross-border transactions that involve cutting-edge technologies, all in largely unregulated markets. My driving force? An unwavering commitment to professional growth. 

Some time ago, I came up with a ten-year plan, leading me to pursue the prestigious LLM Law and New Technologies master’s course at Birkbeck. I carefully chose this course because it perfectly complements my existing expertise and awards me a formal qualification, making me even more equipped to provide exceptional legal counsel to clients across various domains. 

 

A course that stands out 

What truly distinguishes this Master’s program is its deliberate focus on empowering legal professionals like me, who are actively navigating the challenges of unregulated markets while having a profound understanding of the legal frameworks shaping the future. I’m a staunch advocate for fellow tech-driven professionals from the Fourth Industrial Revolution to seize this transformative course and enrich their knowledge. 

Now that I’ve successfully completed the program, I’ve got ambitious plans to spearhead two Blockchain projects in the Sub-Saharan African region. The future is looking bright! 

The Chevening Experience 

The Chevening experience is truly unparalleled. Undoubtedly, it stands as the most competitive international scholarship award; honouring professionals amidst the 65,000 applicants and yielding a 3% success rate. It also offers those granted scholarship the opportunity to meet future world leaders and nurture an invaluable network, irrespective of your industry. 

Although I was selected on my first application, I would strongly advise prospective applicants to persevere and apply as many times as necessary. The application process demands rigor, requiring prior work and high achievements to stand out. Nevertheless, this journey embodies the essence of a future leader, and the sacrifices made will undoubtedly reap rewarding outcomes. 

Another thing I came to realise is that the key to an exceptional Chevening experience lies in actively taking part in all network events. Seize every opportunity to connect with as many individuals as possible and share your aspirations. These connections will pave the way for future collaborations with colleagues, investors, partners, and officials. My highlight was immersing myself in all the opportunities that being a Chevening scholar offered in the vibrant heart of London. It’s an experience I cherish deeply.  

My Birkbeck Experience 

The exceptional quality of the lecturers truly set my experience apart. Throughout my Master’s course, I had the privilege of learning from thought leaders who held esteemed positions within the industry. It was an inspiring journey of intellectual growth. 

For anyone contemplating an application to Birkbeck, here’s my advice: ensure a deep understanding of why your chosen course aligns perfectly with your goals. In other words, be intentional and highly selective when making your course choice. It’ll greatly enhance your overall learning journey. 

In conclusion, it’s been a remarkable adventure, and I eagerly anticipate the chapters yet to be written in my future endeavors! 

FURTHER INFORMATION 

 

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Meet the Chevening Scholar: Awa Toure, from Mali

The first female from Mali to be granted a Chevening scholarship, Awa Toure joined Birkbeck to study MSc Management with International Business and Development as the sole recipient for the 2022 Chevening scholarship intake from her home country. Here we get to know more about her background, her hopes for the future, and her experiences of both Chevening and Birkbeck. 

An enriching path to Birkbeck 

At the age of 15 I left Mali to pursue my studies in Canada. In Montreal, known for its diverse population, I had the opportunity to attend the prestigious high school, College Jean de Brebeuf, and obtain a Bachelor’s degree in International Business from the Écoles des sciences de la Gestion from the University of Quebec. Living in such an international environment allowed me to interact with people from many backgrounds, broadened my horizons, fostered acceptance of different perspectives, and deepened my understanding of diverse cultures. Additionally, during my undergraduate years, I participated in the ERASMUS university exchange program in Madrid, Spain where I attended the Colegio Universitario de Estudios Financieros. Wanting to continue my path of enriching education, I decided to study MSc Management with International Business and Development at Birkbeck, to enhance my technical expertise and nurture my global network at a prestigious institution.  

With great aspirations also come great responsibilities  

I recognize that vicious cycles of internal and external systemic shocks can perpetuate poverty and hunger in a nation. I also recognize that this can be made worse by inadequate government systems and firmly believe that valuable and sustainable development solutions lie in the collaborative efforts of individuals, communities, and markets. So, yes, I aspire to become a powerful international businesswoman, but I also want to serve as a role model and make a positive impact in Mali’s journey towards economic independence and self-sustainability.  

When adaptability is a superpower 

I believe the role I play as a young female in bringing positive change to Mali, must be equally multifaceted as the challenges facing my nation. Understanding the complex and inter-sectoral challenges facing my home country and wanting to serve as well as do well for myself, I have become something of a polymath. My academic and professional experiences have married the disciplines of international business with social enterprise, communications, storytelling, gender rights development, digital access, and transformative justice. What matters most to me is understanding and platforming the trajectories of Malian economy, the stories of its communities, its women and girls, the able-bodied and ability impaired, the rural and urban, the old and young. When public systems fail, we must ask: how have they coped up until now? What do they need to survive and thrive? And how can we support communities in developing and maintaining their livelihoods outside of weak public structures?  

The role of Chevening in my aspirations 

Before applying to Chevening I was unaware of its existence.  During a heartfelt conversation with a friend, who coincidentally happens to be a former Chevening alumnus, we embarked on a discussion regarding the development trajectory of Mali. It was within this enriching exchange that my friend enlightened me about the Chevening program, expressing her conviction that it would be an impeccable match for my aspirations. And now, I find myself standing proudly as a member of this amazing community, to which I am eternally grateful.  

For anyone thinking about studying at Birkbeck: don’t hesitate!

The level of study and intellectual stimulation at Birkbeck has been truly outstanding, with engaging lectures, thought-provoking discussions, and a supportive learning environment. The faculty members have been highly knowledgeable and passionate, offering valuable insights and guidance at every turn. I enjoy every seminar I attend, and know that the learning outcomes from these will follow me for the rest of my life. If there’s anyone out there thinking of studying at Birkbeck, I would wholeheartedly encourage them to take the leap. Birkbeck also offers a flexible and inclusive learning environment, making it an excellent choice to pursue higher education while managing other commitments. I love the flexibility offered by the university to balance work, personal life, and academic pursuits and I am sure you will too. Do not hesitate! 

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Meet the Chevening Scholars: Immanuel Tangi Shilamo, from Namibia

In this series we profile Birkbeck’s Chevening Scholars to find out about their backgrounds, what makes them tick and their experiences while studying at Birkbeck. In this edition we get to know Immanuel Tangi Shilamo, from Namibia studying LLM Criminal Law and Criminal Justice. 

Tell us your background and what led you to studying LLM Criminal Law and Criminal Justice?  

I am a Police Officer in the Namibian Police Force. My undergraduate and honours degrees were in criminal justice, and I decided to pursue an LLM in Criminal Law and Criminal Justice because it represents a step-up on the work I have done at undergraduate and honours level. It offers a unique opportunity to integrate criminal law and criminal justice from an interdisciplinary position. This was a very attractive aspect of Birkbeck’s course for me, owing to my experience as a police officer and also coming from a criminal justice background where criminal law was one of the core modules. 

 

What’s the Chevening Experience been like for you? 

Applying to Chevening has been a fascinating process on the whole. From preparing essays that had to meet certain requirements to progress to the interview stage, to the waiting periods between the stages – there was a level of trepidation at every turn. But actually, every second of the application process is worthwhile when you finally get selected. I was selected after my second application.   

As a scholar, I attended the Chevening conference in Coventry and also the Peak District event in Edale. I also participated in the football match between Chevening and Commonwealth scholars in Manchester. These sorts of events have been great, because I got to meet and get to know other scholars.  

Between tight academic schedules and a busy London social life, I think my Chevening highlight is simply the fact that I have met and engaged with so many people from different backgrounds – from both intellectual and literal perspectives. Everyone has come from all over the world and is studying something different and fascinating.   

What advice would you give to future Chevening scholars?  

Make the best of your year in the UK. Time really flies. Before you know it, you are booking your flight back home. Therefore, when you get a chance, expand your circle, make friends, engage with new people. But don’t forget your purpose for coming to the UK either! Prioritise your schoolwork as much as possible. 

How about your Birkbeck experience?  

The highlight at Birkbeck has been the quality of the education. The delivery of the modules really stands out. The demonstration of the depth of knowledge by the tutors and module convenors is very clear to see and understand. Also, the diversity of module topics and how they were offered was impressive. Birkbeck created a highly intellectually stimulating environment for me. 

What plans do you have for the future?  

After completing my studies, I plan to return to my home country and share the knowledge and experience I gained while studying in the UK, both with my colleagues in the Namibian Police Force and also generally with the criminal justice community in Namibia. Through this, I am hoping to contribute to the goals and aspirations of the Namibian Police Force in particular, and the criminal justice system at large. 

What would you say to someone thinking of applying to Birkbeck? 

You don’t need a second invitation. Birkbeck will not only serve as an intellectually stimulating knowledge hub, but you will also enjoy the convenience of evening education, which offers you time to expand your horizons and get to experience the best of both social and academic life on offer in London.  

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Wonder inside and outside the classroom: an international student’s first month in London

Emi Nguyen came to the UK from Vietnam to study a Master’s in Culinary Innovation Management at Birkbeck. Here she talks about her discoveries during her first month in the capital 

The beginning of something new
It’s my fourth week living and studying in London and sometimes it still feels a bit surreal. I have visited London dozens of times before but it’s completely different to live here and be a part of the innovative current flowing through this multicultural city. I’m truly grateful for choosing this journey, especially when I have supportive staff and friends at Birkbeck going through this with me. 

A welcoming orientation
I must be honest, though I have been regularly travelling abroad from my home country of Vietnam since the age of 16, this time I felt quite anxious leaving my nest. A million questions popped up in my head during the twelve hour flight. Will I fit in? What’s it like being a student in the UK? Is being a Master’s student different to being an undergraduate student? But all of those worries were eased on the orientation day. Yes: orientation is important! I got to meet all my course mates who share a passion for culinary innovation with me. The staff at Birkbeck were dedicated, kind and helpful throughout the orientation and since then too. Before orientation I didn’t know how best to construct an academic paragraph, or how to make the most of the library. The whole event was not just useful, but also heartwarming and reassuring; Birkbeck gave us the kindest welcome. 

When learning feels magical
What’s better than a warm welcome? Two warm welcomes! As a Master’s student in Culinary Management, I have contact with both Birkbeck academics and teachers from Le Cordon Bleu. If Birkbeck staff support me to aim for and achieve a high academic standard, the chefs and lecturers at Le Cordon Bleu open the door for me to explore the colourful culinary world. It feels like a dream come true to explore my passion for food in this way. Walking into Le Cordon Bleu for the first time, I felt like a child visiting Disneyland. Everything is so dynamic, lively and full of wonders, and my lessons continue to feel this way. What a magical place! 

The surprises of the capital
I knew that London offered a lot to do outside of classes. For an art enthusiast like me, there are plenty of artistic activities and exhibitions to dive into outside of my studies. I had the opportunity to look at Cezanne’s paintings at Tate Modern and it was an extremely emotional experience for me. All that I have watched and learned from books about this legendary artist and his work… was suddenly there in front of me! And I was looking at his brush strokes and vivid colours in a crowded room, with others also sharing the experience! What a time to be in London.  

Final words for the first month
Change can be scary. Moving to a new city, starting a new course, and following your passion are not always easy things to do. But learning to embrace fear and diving in can lead to a world of wonders. 

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