How an Architecture Graduate from Ghana Won the Fully Funded Chevening Scholarship to Study Climate Resilience at the University of Liverpool

Architecture solves a myriad of problems in this world, defines and shapes our daily lives. Think of your home, school, or workplace, it makes such a huge difference. After graduating from Architecture school in Ghana and practicing for a while, I considered pursuing ‘something that can change the future,’ and that dream led me to pursue Climate Resilience and Environmental Sustainability in Architecture at the University of Liverpool. How can the built environment adapt to the changing climate and all the issues around us? Certainly, Architecture leads the built environment sector in reducing carbon, creating safe and healthy buildings that last several years without causing negative impacts on the environment. I seek to be part of this global vision. My name is Afua, and I am a Chevening 2024/2025 scholar.

Chevening Scholarship Details

The Chevening scholarship is a prestigious, FULLY FUNDED scholarship that connects exceptional young talents across the world to varied master's degree courses in the United Kingdom. The UK Government’s initiative is funded by the Foreign Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO). The award covers tuition, airfare, and a monthly stipend. Tuition fees vary according to the chosen University, so there will be a little variation in total amounts (Chevening directly liaises with the University to sort all payments, etc). The University of Liverpool also played a huge role in this attainment because they are Chevening partners, contributing to the admission and supporting the journey of the scholar.

Educational Background

I would like to emphasise that Chevening is not all about grades but leadership and impact. Obviously, one must attain the grades to pass the eligibility criteria of the chosen University. Knowing your GPA or CWA is important to make the list of your University. Having a strong second-class upper in my BSc. Architecture, the application and admission process was smooth and stress-free. The firm foundation of my first degree prepared me for the journey ahead, to be able to build upon the knowledge I have.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Liverpool?

I applied to three Universities in the UK myself, quite an easy and simple process. I wrote essays related to my chosen course, my previous experience related to the course, my future aspirations, and my motivation. This is a mandatory piece of the process, coupled with submission of my transcripts, certificates, and references, and I obtained an English language test waiver because English formed an integral part of my previous academic preparations. Upon fulfilling all the requirements, I received an unconditional offer letter from my University. In my case, the University of Liverpool was very quick to review my application, and within a few days, I received my unconditional letter.

I did not take any language proficiency tests because English is the official language in my country, Ghana.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Scholarship?

I got to know about Chevening two months before the closing date in October 2023. I went to the Chevening website, read all about the essays, created an account on the portal, and started writing my essays. The Chevening website is the biggest guide to the essays. After understanding the requirements, I moved on to write my essays using the STAR approach, pulling out my best experiences in life about leadership and how I made impact on the lives of people, building relationships, stated solid reasons why I wanted to study in the UK and my career plan (short, medium and long term). Spotlessly completing all essays and other requirements is the first essential step.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

Any outstanding application will have a chronological path of the STAR approach and will sound natural. From my experience, my application speaks that I am a change maker and I am ready to further hone my leadership skills, I have a clear path for the future, and willing to get to greater heights. In addition, the knowledge from the course I am studying will also affect the lives of many, not only in my home country, but will make a global impact in various ways. Beyond the essays, preparing in advance for the interview made the difference. I presented myself during the interview and answered the questions to the best of my ability, and gladly received the announcement of my selection.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

I doubt I would change anything. I had this on the first attempt. Although I got to know about it briefly before applying, I diligently went through the process of knowing exactly what was required. That made it perfect.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

Read between the lines with a microscopic lens to know the details required of the scholarship before you apply. Sometimes people just jump and apply without paying attention to the requirements. You must be a change maker in your own small way. You don’t need to build castles and meet presidents. Consider how you can impact the lives of others and start today. Cheveners are global impact makers.