Nigerian Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Recipient Pursues Fully Funded Master's in Environmental Engineering at Newcastle University, UK

I like to describe myself as someone who is curious and passionate about learning. My name is Alfred Navokhi Apaji. I am from a small town in the North-eastern part of Nigeria. I am currently a rising second-year PhD student in the US, having completed my Master’s in Environmental Engineering at Newcastle University in the UK, fully sponsored by the UK government through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission. My background is in Industrial Chemistry.

I graduated with a First Class (Honours) from Modibbo Adama University, Yola, Nigeria. After graduation, I was enrolled in the compulsory one-year national service scheme in Nigeria, where I taught undergrads basic Chemistry at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, Nigeria. It was at this point that I developed a strong interest in gaining a deeper knowledge about the environment, having served as the president of the Environmental Conservation Club within the national service scheme. This led me to pursue postgraduate studies. Since my parents could not afford to sponsor me, I started looking for options; hence, I started applying for scholarships.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Details

I started applying for scholarships immediately after my national service in 2022. I applied initially to several scholarships, including Mastercard, Total, Chevening, PTDF (Nigerian petroleum award), and Commonwealth Shared Scholarships. Even with my high academic qualifications, my applications were all rejected. It was so painful because I had hoped that at least I would get into one of these scholarships. That didn’t deter me. I tried to connect with scholars on LinkedIn, Twitter, etc. I watched a lot of YouTube videos and learned how to write better essays for graduate school applications. I cannot count the number of webinars I attended. In 2023, I applied only to Chevening, Commonwealth Shared, and Bristol Think Big Scholarships. I got Commonwealth Shared at Newcastle University in the UK and Think Big at the University of Bristol, also in the UK. I settled for the Commonwealth Shared because it was fully funded, including the costs of a visa, air tickets.

Educational Background

Given my background in Industrial Chemistry, I think it has positioned me to pivot to other fields, as it is a central science. My high CGPA (4.65/5.00) played an important role in my being selected for the scholarships. Also, I think that scholarship bodies look at your package as a whole. I had incredible leadership skills spanning Head Boy in high school, Secretary for my department in Uni, and also during my national service year, where I served as president of the environmental conservation group. In all these positions, I highlighted the roles and achievements that I had. I believe it was very helpful. The most important aspect is knowing how to craft them into a compelling story.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Newcastle University?

In terms of preparation, I did not take the IELTS during my application as Nigeria is considered an English-speaking country. I got a letter of English proficiency from my undergrad institution, and it did the trick. For my PhD, I didn’t take any tests either. I think the fact that I was already in the UK helped me scale that part. If I were to write those exams today, I would prepare just the way I prepared for my scholarships: watch videos, learn from those who have been there, get prep materials, and practice till I master them.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Scholarship?

Applying for scholarships requires accurate and timely information. You need to know scholarship application timelines. You need to know what institutions to apply to and the admission policies. For example, do they require application fees, standard tests, etc. You need to have all required documents, including: passport, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, statements of purpose, Academic CV, etc. They all need to be precise, clear, and succinct. I made sure everything was near perfect. I also asked others to have a look at them before I turned them in.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

What made my applications stand out, I believe, were my academic qualifications, leadership, and voluntary experiences, and the ability to write compelling stories about myself. In addition, I made sure that I went above and beyond in satisfying the requirements and submitting my applications well before deadlines.

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

What I will do differently today will be to start early. Involve yourself early in the process, and develop data analysis skills early, such as Python, R, or MATLAB. This is very helpful.

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

Advice: If you are still doing your undergrad, make sure you get the highest grades possible. Partake in leadership roles, volunteer, and have connections with your teachers; their recommendations are always handy. For those already out and applying, keep developing your skills and always be ready.