I learnt about the Chevening Awards through an alumnus who encouraged me to apply. They shared inspiring stories of their academic journey, the global connections they made, and the immense personal and professional growth they experienced as a result of the scholarship. Their mentorship and guidance motivated me to take the bold step of applying. Through this conversation, I gained a deeper understanding of how the program equips scholars to drive change and contribute meaningfully to their communities. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of my transformative Chevening journey.

Chevening is not just a scholarship but a gateway to a transformative journey of academic excellence, leadership growth, and global influence. The scholarship offers a wide range of benefits that support academic, professional, and personal development, including:

1. Full Financial Support: the scholarship covers tuition fees for a one-year Master’s degree at any UK university and a monthly stipend to cover living expenses.
2. Access to World-Class Education: the scholarship is an opportunity to study at some of the world’s top-ranked universities and grants exposure to diverse academic disciplines and cutting-edge research.
3. Global Networking Opportunities: scholars become part of a global network of changemakers from all over the world. There are regular events, conferences, and activities that facilitate connections with professionals and leaders across various sectors. 
4. Cultural Exchange: living in the UK provides an opportunity to experience its rich cultural heritage. Being a Chevening scholar is an opportunity to engage with scholars from diverse backgrounds, fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.
5. Leadership Development: there are various programs and workshops designed to enhance leadership, communication, networking and problem-solving skills.
6. Career Advancement: Chevening alumni are highly regarded by employers globally, thanks to the scholarship’s reputation. The scholarship opens doors to high-impact roles in government, business, academia, and civil society.
7. Post-Study Opportunities: the scholarship is a gateway to a supportive alumni network that provides mentorship and collaboration opportunities even after completing the program. This grants an opportunity to contribute to meaningful global and local change through Chevening communities.

https://www.chevening.org/scholarships/

My most memorable experience was being among the Chevening scholars (2022-23) who contributed over 2000 hours to volunteering in the UK. Volunteering is an act of kindness and it is priceless. Even amid the demanding academic schedules, I created time to make a difference in the lives of other people. I was awarded the Chevening Volunteer Awards (Bronze category) for dedicating over 20 hours to volunteering in the UK.

Additionally, I was among the students who participated in the 2023 Telethon at St. Hugh’s College to raise funds for the Discretionary Fund from alumni. It was fulfilling to be part of an experience whose ultimate goal is to lessen the financial burden of students who aspire to study at the college in future. This role allowed me to give back, open doors for future students, connect with alumni and learn more about the college.

To have a holistic UK and Oxford experience, I engaged in various activities such as attending the cultural nights for the various cultural groups represented in the Master of Public Policy (MPP) class, playing basketball at the University’s sports centre, punting and being an active member of the Africa-Oxford society (Afrisoc). I also toured different cities in the UK with my classmates and friends. These included Bath, London, Birmingham, Leeds, Bradford, Nottingham, Bristol, Warwick, Manchester, Liverpool, Cambridge and Coventry.

As a Manchester United football fan, I also had the opportunity to watch a live football game at Old Trafford and undertake a stadium tour. As a football enthusiast, stepping into the “theatre of dreams” was nothing short of surreal. The atmosphere was electric, with tens of thousands of fans passionately cheering for their team. This experience was not just about enjoying a game; it was a reminder of how sports can unite people from diverse backgrounds. It also reinforced the value of taking time to enjoy unique opportunities while pursuing academic and professional goals.

Visiting the Seven Sisters Cliffs was a breathtaking and unforgettable experience during my Chevening journey. The majestic chalk cliffs, set against the vibrant blue of the English Channel, offered stunning panoramic views that left me in awe. Walking along the coastal trails, I felt a profound connection to nature and a sense of serenity amidst the dramatic landscapes. This visit was more than just sightseeing. It was a moment of reflection and gratitude, reminding me of the beauty the UK has to offer and the importance of balancing academic pursuits with personal rejuvenation.

One major challenge I faced in my Chevening scholarship pursuit was self-doubt, particularly during the application process. I questioned whether my achievements and experiences were strong enough to stand out among thousands of applicants. Additionally, balancing the rigorous application process with work commitments was overwhelming at times.

To overcome this, I sought guidance from Chevening alumni who shared their experiences and encouraged me to believe in my unique story. I also created a structured timeline to manage my tasks effectively, dedicating specific periods to writing and revising my essays. Feedback from trusted mentors helped refine my application, ensuring clarity and impact.

Ultimately, focusing on my passion for leadership and my vision for community impact kept me motivated. By tackling the process step by step and seeking support, I successfully overcame these challenges and earned the scholarship.

To students considering applying for scholarships, my advice is simple: start early, believe in yourself, trust in God, and stay focused. Begin by thoroughly researching scholarship opportunities that align with your goals and values. Understand the eligibility criteria, application requirements, and deadlines. Starting early gives you enough time to craft a compelling application and seek feedback.

Your story is your strength, so be authentic and confident. Clearly articulate your achievements, leadership experiences, and how the scholarship will enable you to make a meaningful impact. Highlight your unique perspective and what makes you a valuable candidate. Seek guidance from mentors or alumni who have successfully navigated the process. Their insights can help refine your application and boost your confidence.

Don’t let self-doubt stop you from applying. Many successful scholars once felt unqualified, but perseverance made the difference. Treat the application process as an opportunity for growth and reflection. Lastly, stay organised and persistent. Scholarship applications can be competitive, but every “no” brings you closer to a “yes.” Stay focused on your vision, and remember that faith, hard work and determination often pay off in unexpected and rewarding ways.

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LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/winfred-mutinda-hsc-43229449/

I had a CGPA of 3.51/5.00 in my bachelor’s degree and secured this scholarship that had afforded me more than what I stepped out for. You do not have any excuse. How badly you want it will determine if you’ll get it or not (Never forgetting the GOD factor)

LinkedIn – Audu Dennis Ndashiru