Akanksha Gulwe

Choosing a university

When I was choosing where to study, I was initially drawn to UCL because of its rankings and reputation. But once I arrived, what stood out most for me was the university’s genuine investment in the student experience.

From world-class faculty to specialised events, research opportunities, and a vibrant academic community, the quality of the education is something you feel in every lecture, every seminar, every resource, and every professional interaction.

I’ve established relationships with world-renowned institutions like the British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum, and built a network of industry professionals and mentors who continue to shape my academic and professional journey.

UCL’s reputation may have brought me here, but it’s the experience and community that has been propelling me forward ever since, equipping me with the tools, confidence, and connections to thrive in the museum and heritage sector.

UCL Scholarships

I was incredibly fortunate to receive the Global Masters Scholarship (£15,000) and the India Excellence Scholarship (£5,000).

Thanks to this support, I’ve been able to focus on my studies wholeheartedly, take on volunteering roles that enrich my learning, and immerse myself in campus life.

Building my career

Before pursuing my Master’s, my goal was clear: I wanted to work in museums and play a role in shaping how history is shared with the public. I knew I wanted to be part of the museum world, but I didn’t yet know was where exactly I fit within that world.

Born into an orthodox Indian family, where dreaming beyond the conventional wasn’t encouraged, choosing a career in the arts and moving to London was anything but typical. Yet, it was one of the most life-changing decisions I’ve ever made.

Doing a Master’s has not only given me academic knowledge, but also the confidence and tools to refine my path with clarity and purpose, and the connections to thrive in the museum and heritage sector.

I completed a work placement, and everything I had been learning in class came to life. This not only deepened my understanding of the field but also gave me the assurance that this is exactly what I want to do in my career.

UCL Careers also played a crucial role in my development. I attended tailored sessions hosted by the faculty, which offered practical insights into career paths, CV building, and job applications.

As an international student, these sessions were especially helpful. They demystified the UK job market, clarified professional expectations, and gave me the confidence to start building my career here.

Moving from Mumbai to London

I chose UCL not just for its academic excellence, but for its location. I wanted to be in London, with its vibrant culture, endless resources, and global heartbeat.

I love visiting museums, watching a play, or simply exploring new neighbourhoods. There’s always something happening; popups, exhibitions, street food festivals. And as someone from Mumbai, I found London surprisingly walkable, which has been a delightful discovery!

As a postgraduate student, I initially feared it would be harder to make friends or find a community, but I soon found my community.

I attended Students’ Union events such as “Breakfast for International Students,” where I met students from all over the world, each of us navigating the same mix of excitement and uncertainty.

I met my first circle of friends at UCL’s Speed Friending event, where conversations about coursework quickly turned into shared meals and late-night study sessions.

Looking back, I realise how much I’ve grown, not just academically, but personally and professionally. UCL didn’t just help me earn a degree; it helped me find my voice, define my goals, and build a foundation for a meaningful career.

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