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Studying for an MA in Social Justice and Education, Chevening Scholar Jasna Rudović shares her experience of applying for the scholarship.
Becoming a Chevening Scholar at University College London was a dream I nurtured with passion and determination. Through meticulous preparation and unwavering commitment, I successfully secured this prestigious scholarship. In this article, I will share my personal journey and the strategies I employed to stand out as a deserving recipient of the Chevening Scholarship.
Crafting a compelling narrative: the key to capturing the attention of the selection committee lies in the power of storytelling. I delved deep into my experiences, accomplishments and aspirations, carefully crafting a compelling narrative that showcased my unique qualities and motivations. By immersing myself in the process, I was able to communicate my story with clarity and authenticity.
Thorough research: to understand the essence of the Chevening program, I conducted extensive research. I explored its objectives, values and the qualities sought in potential scholars. Additionally, I delved into the profiles of past Chevening alumni to gain insights into the calibre of individuals associated with the program. Armed with this knowledge, I aligned my aspirations with the program's goals, showcasing my dedication and commitment to making a difference. As part of my competency, I also familiarised myself with UK Government projects in my country, Montenegro, such as the 21st Century Schools program, and discussed them with the committee.
Mapping out the future: I recognised the importance of outlining a clear vision for my post-Chevening journey. To demonstrate my commitment and foresight, I thought critically about how the skills and qualifications I would acquire through the program could contribute to my long-term goals. By mapping out my future plans, I showcased my determination to make a meaningful impact in my chosen field.
Mastering the interview: the interview stage was a pivotal moment in my quest to become a Chevening Scholar. To excel in this phase, I practised extensively. Standing in front of a mirror, I honed my body language and perfected my responses. I ensured that the content of my essays was seamlessly integrated with my verbal answers, allowing me to confidently communicate my thoughts and demonstrate my suitability for the program.
Highlighting course and university choice: when selecting my course, Social Justice and Education at UCL, I meticulously researched its curriculum, professors' expertise, and expected learning outcomes. I highlighted the reasons behind my selection of University College London, emphasising its unique advantages, such as its incredible ranking, progressing research, diverse student body, flexible class schedules and attractive location. This demonstrated my thoughtful consideration and alignment of my goals with the institution's offerings.
Passion as the driving force: throughout the application process, I emphasised my genuine passion for my program. Genuine passion distinguishes a job from a lifelong career. By showcasing my deep-rooted passion, I conveyed an unwavering commitment to making an impact.
Honesty, humility and community contribution: during the interview, I displayed honesty and humility about my goals and community service commitment. Starting small can lead to significant change. By highlighting my dedication to serving my community and country, I showcased my commitment to using Chevening for a positive difference.
Becoming a Chevening Scholar requires dedication and preparation. I learned to craft a compelling narrative, conduct research, plan the future, master interviews, highlight course choices and show passion and commitment. By putting these strategies into action, I was able to successfully obtain the Chevening Scholarship and believe they can be beneficial to others embarking on this life-changing endeavour.
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