How Anna Gräfin von Pestalozza, a German Scholar, Secured a Fully Funded Degree in Public Policy and Public Policy Research at the University of Oxford, United Kingdom Through the Rhodes Scholarship

My name is Anna Gräfin von Pestalozza. I am from Germany, where I graduated in Engineering with a scholarship from the German Academic Scholarship Foundation. I also graduated from Oxford in Public Policy and Public Policy Research with the support of the Rhodes Trust. As a former member of the German Armed Forces, I have undergone in-depth military training and worked at the NATO headquarters in Brussels.

Rhodes Scholarship Details

The Rhodes Trust offers a full stipend for students in Oxford. This includes a monthly stipend, visa, health insurance, and the complete tuition fee. The Rhodes Trust offers plenty of non-financial support beyond that. Already before arriving in Oxford, I felt part of the very dedicated, driven, and open-minded Rhodes community. With regular events such as panel talks, sports, and retreats, the Rhodes Trust has fundamentally shaped and enriched my experience in Oxford.

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

I have additionally received a scholarship from the German Academic Scholarship Foundation, which included mentorship and a monthly stipend of 300€.

Educational Background

Before applying for the Rhodes stipend, I studied Engineering Sciences at the University of the Federal Armed Forces Germany in Hamburg with a scholarship from the German Academic Scholarship Foundation. I graduated first in my class for both the Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, with GPAs of 1.3 and 1.1. I assume that being on top of my class, as well as having received the prestigious scholarship of the German Academic Scholarship Foundation, strongly supported my application to the Rhodes Trust.

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

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

I was first informed about the Rhodes Scholarship via a flyer at the university’s international office and searched for additional information on their webpage, which I highly recommend before applying. Some study programmes require top results in standardised tests. For me, a TOEFL English test was required. Interestingly, you apply for the Rhodes stipend before applying to Oxford. After receiving the stipend, the Rhodes Trust was very supportive in explaining Oxford’s application process and passing on my application to the responsible offices in Oxford.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Rhodes Scholarship?

The applications for the Rhodes Scholarship are conducted by the national offices, in my case the German office. This included a CV, a cover letter, and an in-person interview. The Rhodes Trust usually recommends simply showing up as yourself in your interview, and I could not agree more - being passionate about your topic of choice and genuinely driven to make an impact strikes me as crucial to being chosen as a Rhodes Scholar. In preparing for the interview, I reflected mostly on my motivation in my field of work, the impact I want to have in the world, and how the values of the Rhodes Trust align with my own. It is important to keep in mind that the Rhodes Scholarship not only offers financial support but is a community that stands for leadership and using academic studies for

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I think that authenticity and passion have truly been the key to my successful application. I remember genuinely enjoying the interview as it was different from any other I had taken so far. I was asked philosophical questions, very critical questions about my own stance, and the whole interview very naturally developed into a back-and-forth of theories and perspectives - all accompanied by a natural sense of open-mindedness, curiosity, and depth. Retrospectively, I am sure that my passion and drive truly came across as genuine and well supported by my education and hitherto decisions. The Rhodes Trust is explicitly searching for people with an eagerness for leadership and impact, which definitely aligns with my professional vision.

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

The Rhodes Trust nowadays is built on decades of traditions and interesting history. Though it would not have changed the application process, I think it would have been helpful to learn more about the trust’s history and previous scholars to better understand the truly outstanding community you might become part of.

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

The Rhodes Trust is an excellent institution and community for me since it aligns with my values as pointed out above. Regardless of the prestige of any scholarship, I highly recommend choosing one where you personally feel alignment, authentic curiosity, and opportunities for growth and contribution. It always makes sense to study the scholarship’s history, approach, values, and previous scholars’ work and research.