Pakistani Microbiology Graduate Wins Bestway Foundation Scholarship for MSc at University of Bradford

I’m Anis Malik, and I am from Haripur, Pakistan. I studied MSc Medical Bioscience under the fully funded Bestway Foundation Scholarship at the University of Bradford and am currently working as a Quality Control Technician in a Food Testing Microbiology Laboratory in the UK. Previously, I gained diverse experience in academia and industry in Pakistan, which helped me earn this scholarship and explore further developments and advancements in the field of Biomedical Sciences.

Bestway Foundation Scholarship Details

The Bestway Foundation Scholarship is offered by the University of Bradford, UK, to five Pakistani students annually for selected one-year master’s programs in the Faculty of Life Sciences and the Faculty of Engineering and Informatics. It provides full-tuition fee coverage, accommodation, and an annual stipend of £6,665. This is quite a generous package, allowing scholars to focus fully on their studies and develop relevant skills.

Educational Background

I graduated with a Bachelor’s in Biotechnology from the International Islamic University Islamabad, Pakistan, and completed a six-month research project with Grade A (80% and above), addressing antibiotic resistance, and achieving an overall score of 80% with a CGPA of 3.71/4.00. I was selected for a one-year apprenticeship at an ISO 17025 internationally accredited Food Testing Microbiology Laboratory, where I was also promoted to Evening Shift-in-Charge to manage lab operations for two months.

Developing my interest in microbiology, I pursued an MPhil in Microbiology from the University of Haripur, Pakistan, undertaking a one-year research project with Grade A+ (90% and above). I was the first to address the antibiotic resistance profile of environmentally sourced Enterobacter spp. in my hometown, achieving a CGPA of 3.75 and a percentage of 81%. I also volunteered as a Lab Assistant during my MPhil in my supervisor’s Applied Microbiology Lab, assisting graduate students in their research projects and guiding bachelor’s research students. I conducted practical classes, formulated plans, and arranged equipment for lab sessions.

Alongside, I worked part-time as a Biology Teacher at the college level through a provincial government scheme for one academic session. I connected my academic and professional progression to my selected field of study, which offers similar but enhanced career prospects.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to UK Institutions?

I found it really important to research the institution and the program I was applying to, including facilities (like lab equipment) and the requirements of the scholarship and program. For example, what to include in the personal statement. The motivation letter or personal statement is what matters most in making your application stand out.

How Did You Prepare for IELTS?

A general requirement is a language test. Even if it’s not mandatory, it can strengthen your application and the visa process. I took both TOEFL and IELTS and secured a B2 level in both. Students who have studied in English since primary school can usually pass with just knowledge of the test format, which is easily available on YouTube. I had to take IELTS urgently for this scholarship. I had no prior knowledge, but I prepared in two weeks and scored a 6.5 band. I prefer computer-based tests because they offer an advantage in the writing section, making it easier to edit and correct mistakes.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Bestway Foundation Scholarship?

I took my time gathering information from the university, program pages, and scholarship requirements, especially for the personal statement. I organized everything in the order I wanted to address it and tailored my statement specifically to the program and scholarship.

What makes this scholarship unique is that it recognizes the struggles of students who have overcome hardships and still made significant progress in their careers. I reached out to previous scholarship holders on Facebook and LinkedIn and respectfully asked for their feedback. This helped me immensely. It's important not to rely on generic information from social media. Instead, research the university, program, and scholarship pages thoroughly.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe the combination of my work in academia, research, and industry provided a strong foundation, along with a long-term vision aligned with my past experiences and what I hoped to gain from this scholarship. I focused on writing a statement that was concise, coherent, and had a good narrative flow. I avoided complex words, opting for clear and simple language that conveyed my message effectively.

I spent months refining my personal statement, linking my CV, academic achievements, professional experience, hardships, and future goals. I also explained what gaps I aimed to fill through this scholarship. I approached it from a societal perspective as well—sharing how my voluntary experiences positively impacted others. For instance, I guided bachelor’s students who went on to earn Grade A in their research. I also outlined how I hope to contribute back to society in the future.

How Was Your Experience at the Institution?

The university has a beautiful green campus where you can relax, enjoy nature, or have a live barbecue. The recommended accommodation, "The Green," shares a boundary with the campus and is very convenient. The library is aesthetically set up with quiet and collaborative study zones. Student Central features newly built structures, including a café, club, games, and co-curricular activities. Cultural events are uplifting and provide a great way to learn about different cultures.

The buildings are impressive, and the lab facilities support advanced research. There is even a separate Institute of Cancer Therapeutics dedicated to cancer research. I especially appreciated how well-organized the labs were. Each student received the necessary equipment and resources on time. Overall, the environment and atmosphere were very enjoyable.

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

Considering this for scholarships globally, I would have published my research in a journal, taken more relevant online courses, and gained additional practical experience through internships. I would have worked on acquiring leadership and management skills and networking with alumni. Alumni can offer specific advice and insights that may increase your chances of success.

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

I would answer this from two perspectives: academic and spiritual.

Academically, take your time developing a strong, convincing narrative. Research the university, program, projects, and facilities, and study the specific questions asked in the scholarship. Structure your personal statement coherently, linking all elements together. To me, the personal statement is the most important part, practice it well, and it will eventually become convincing and impactful. Even though I haven’t experienced an interview yet, I recommend staying calm, controlling your nerves, answering questions concisely, showing confidence, and practicing mock interviews.

Spiritually, stay motivated. Resilience and patience are key. It’s completely normal to fail at your first attempt or even after trying for two or three years. In my personal experience, the law of attraction works. If you work sincerely and passionately, and never give up, the Almighty will eventually grant you success. As Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal once said: “Failure is not fatal until we surrender; trying again is the key to glorious victory.”