Q&A with Tooba Rauf

Tooba Rauf is a Curriculum, Pedagogy and Assessment MPhil/PhD student (class of 2027) from Pakistan. She received the Doctoral Centenary Scholarship to study at IOE.

Tooba in front of a field of grass with the sea in the distance.

Why did you choose to study your programme and what made you choose IOE?

I am pursuing a PhD at IOE because of my strong passion for research and a deep curiosity about environmental and climate change education. These fields are critical for shaping sustainable futures, and I am eager to contribute meaningful work in this area.

UCL’s Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Education, known for its extensive and impactful research, inspired me to apply. Their broad range of innovative work aligns perfectly with my academic interests and aspirations, making IOE the ideal place to pursue my doctoral studies.

What do you enjoy most about your programme?

What I enjoy most about my programme is the opportunity to engage with fellow colleagues, both senior and junior. These interactions provide a valuable platform for exchanging ideas, learning from diverse perspectives, and building a sense of community within the academic environment.

How has receiving the scholarship helped you to achieve your aspirations?

The scholarship has not only provided crucial financial support but has also given me the freedom to focus entirely on my research and academic goals.

It has enabled me to work towards contributing meaningfully to the field of environmental and climate change education, which is my passion.

What do you hope to do when you have finished your course?

After my course, I aim to contribute to research in environmental education, expanding my knowledge and finding solutions for global sustainability challenges.

Through academic research, collaboration with educational institutions, or policy initiatives, I am committed to making a meaningful impact.

Do you have any tips or recommendations for our future scholarship applicants?

I advise future scholarship applicants to give themselves ample time to craft a thoughtful and well-structured application.

Thinking and expressing your ideas clearly takes time, so don’t rush it. Reflect on your motivations, goals, and how the scholarship aligns with your aspirations. A carefully written application can make all the difference.

What is it like studying in London?

Studying in London is a truly enriching experience for an international student. While it can initially feel overwhelming due to challenges like navigating a new city and dealing with the high cost of living, these hurdles ease as you settle in.

London offers endless opportunities – academia, work, and socialisation – and its vibrant international culture is something I deeply admire. It’s an incredibly dynamic city where there’s always something exciting happening, whether it’s art, cultural events, or academic seminars.

You’ll never run out of opportunities to learn, explore, and grow here.

How do you think the system of learning and researching at UCL differs from that in your own country?

I come from Pakistan and have studied at two universities there. Compared to UCL, I see similarities and differences. A key difference is the assessment system. Back home, assessments are more rigorous with multiple exams, which can be demanding.

At UCL, the approach is more independent, allowing greater flexibility to explore and develop ideas. This encourages critical thinking and self-directed learning, which I find challenging and rewarding.

Is there anything else you would like to say about your time at IOE?

IOE feels like home and is a nurturing institution. I value the supportive environment and enjoy my time here.

In my second year of the PhD, choosing IOE has been a pivotal decision for my academic growth. The resources and community have been essential in my research journey.