Master’s Food Science Student Christy Babayo from Nigeria Shares Her Journey of Securing a Fully Funded Master’s at the University of Reading, United Kingdom

My name is Christy Babayo, and I am from Billiri, Gombe State, Nigeria. I undertook my undergraduate degree in Microbiology, then proceeded to do my first MSc. In Food and Industrial Microbiology, and later, undertook another MSc. in Food Science. My motivation to pursue this subject matter emerged from observing something that, for a long time, I struggled to articulate: many food decisions are not driven by facts alone, but by the stories communities tell themselves about dignity, respect, and stability.

Growing up in northeastern Nigeria, I witnessed a recurring pattern. Families who worked intensively throughout the year as farmers would sell much of their harvest to finance weddings and ceremonies, ensuring that rice and meat were served. “Good food” meant visible animal protein. After these events, households were often left vulnerable, with limited resources until the next farming season. Food insecurity reappeared, sometimes with severe consequences. Yet the cycle repeated. Families borrowed money and placed financial pressure on diaspora relatives to maintain social standing.

For a long time, I asked myself: Why would communities make choices that appear economically destabilising? This is precisely where my interest in undertaking the subjects lies: to develop my research portfolio, translate research into practical knowledge, and be enabled to partake in policy-making that is sensitive to people and effective.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Details

The Scholarship I received for my one-year Taught Master's was the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship at the University of Reading, which was approximately £55,000.

Educational Background

In 2011, I began my undergraduate studies in Microbiology. I began to wonder how microorganisms enter our food, what supports their growth in food, and how these Pathogens/spoilage microbes are eliminated or controlled in our food so that the food quality remains intact. In 2015, I graduated with a distinction. In 2018, I began my first master's program, where I became more zealous and enthusiastic about understanding the relationship we have with foods and microorganisms. I understood that more profound knowledge of personal hygiene, cleaning, sanitation, and genetic means of controlling pathogens would ensure microbial food safety and fit and quality food consumption, thereby reducing foodborne disease outbreaks. In 2023, my quest for understanding people’s perception about quality food, alternative proteins and food security propelled me to study Food Science. My robust knowledge and experience in these fields prepared me to apply for the Commonwealth funding. My passion for change and participating in policymaking is the quintessential factor.

How Did You Find Information About Commonwealth Shared Scholarship and the University of Reading?

I would say we rise by standing on the shoulders of those who are before us. I first got to know about scholarships from a dear friend with whom I was working at the time. Then, most of the other information I got was from watching YouTube videos, following people’s success stories on LinkedIn, researching schools, subjects, and professors.

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

No, it was not required for me to take any of such.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship?

I would say researching for the course I wanted to study was the first thing. Knowing precisely what impact I want to add, especially to the United Nations’ SDGs (Which was a requirement for my scholarship), was key to my application.  Then researching the school was next, followed by researching potential Professors in my field of interest. Additionally, because the scholarship I applied for required me to write 11 essays, I had to do a lot of research and clear writing with a definite statement of purpose.

How is Your Experience at the University of Reading?

My experience at the University of Reading was an amazing journey. I had support from my scholarship body, the University, and from my tutors and supervisors. At first, it was hard for me because I was homesick, but the university organised events that made me feel at home, where, through networking, I have made friends and a reliable contact.

How Do You Rate the University of Reading Academically?

Out of 10, I would rate the University of Reading 9 because of the organised, structured programs, academic support, and welfare I have received while I was a student.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I think having a definite, clear vision of what I wanted to achieve stood out. My goal was feasible and realistic considering the time frame and the overall vision of the scholarship body.

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

I would do more research than I have done. Understand where my potential Professors are in their research, find gaps, and how I can contribute to their research.

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

I would say identify areas of developmental impact on how you intend to give back to society that are realistic and feasible.