Master’s Environment, Culture and Society Student Dhyana Navar from Mexico Shares Her Journey of Studying at University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom

My name is Dhyana Navar. I am an environmental engineer and Environmental Humanities graduate, and a performing artist from Guadalajara, Mexico. My interdisciplinary practice sits at the intersection of ecology, art, culture, and social justice. My work combines technical tools such as environmental analysis and territorial research with critical approaches and artistic practices, including performance, movement, and installation. Through this convergence, I explore how environmental policies, infrastructures, and power relations shape contemporary socio-environmental experiences.

I decided to pursue the Master’s in Environment, Culture and Society because, while I already had a strong background in the technical and engineering aspects of environmental work, I felt I needed to deepen my understanding of the social, philosophical, anthropological, and even artistic dimensions of environmental challenges. Developing this broader perspective was essential for me in order to address the structural causes behind the issues I work on and contribute to more holistic and meaningful solutions.

The University of Edinburgh, as well as the city itself, offered the perfect environment to pursue this kind of interdisciplinary exploration. The program’s strong integration of environmental humanities with social sciences and critical theory, combined with Edinburgh’s vibrant cultural and academic landscape, made it an ideal place to expand my practice and engage with new perspectives.

Throughout my career, I have collaborated with community organizations, public institutions, academia, and the private sector in Mexico, the Caribbean, and the United Kingdom, contributing to projects related to climate change and environmental governance. My practice integrates scientific research, artistic creation, and participatory processes as ways of translating complex environmental challenges and opening collective spaces for reflection.

Chevening Scholarship Details

I was awarded the Chevening Scholarship to pursue a Master’s degree in Environment, Culture and Society at the University of Edinburgh in the United Kingdom. The scholarship covered tuition, living expenses, and other academic costs, with an estimated total value of around £60,000.

Educational Background

I hold a degree in Environmental Engineering with a specialization in hydrogeology GPA (93). Throughout my professional career I have worked for more than 7 years in several environmental consulting firms focusing on areas such as climate action, regenerative agriculture, mine closure plans, environmental baseline studies, biodiversity conservation, and geographic information systems (GIS).

My work has involved collaborating with private companies, public institutions, NGOs, and academic institutions, which has given me a broad perspective on environmental governance and sustainability challenges. This background provided me with both the technical knowledge and the practical experience that prepared me to pursue interdisciplinary studies in environmental humanities.

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

I spent significant time researching programs in detail. I looked closely at the curriculum, professors, research areas, and the overall focus of each program to ensure it aligned with my academic and professional interests.

I also asked several professors and mentors to review my CV, motivation letters, and application materials, and I carefully tracked deadlines to make sure everything was submitted on time. Additionally, I made sure I understood all the requirements for admission, such as English language exams and official academic transcripts.

How Did You Find Information About the Chevening Scholarship and the University of Edinburgh?

I found information through a combination of sources: recommendations from colleagues and friends, university websites, and my own personal interests in specific research areas. Conversations with others who had studied abroad were also very helpful in understanding where to look and how to approach the process.

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

Yes, I took the IELTS exam as part of the application process. To prepare, I took some free online courses and practice sessions that helped me become familiar with the exam format and improve my confidence before taking the test.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Chevening Scholarship?

Preparation required a lot of research and reflection. I spent time reading about the scholarship, listening to podcasts, and learning from previous scholarship recipients about their experiences.

I also reached out to professors, friends, and mentors for advice and feedback. Their support was very helpful in strengthening my application and clarifying how to communicate my motivations and long-term goals.

How Is (was) Your Experience at the University of Edinburgh?

My experience at the University of Edinburgh was very positive. The program helped me understand new perspectives, especially from the humanities, on environmental issues that I had previously approached mainly from a technical perspective.

The department is highly interdisciplinary and includes students from all over the world. This diversity made discussions richer and allowed me to learn from many different cultural and academic backgrounds. My professors and the university were also very supportive, offering guidance, academic resources, and additional opportunities for learning throughout the program.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because I had a very clear vision of what I wanted to do professionally and how the master's program would help me achieve those goals. I was able to clearly explain why the program, the university, and studying in the UK were important steps in my career path.

I also tried to demonstrate my passion and commitment to environmental work, as well as the potential impact I hope to create through my interdisciplinary practice.

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

If I could go through the process again, I would probably start applying to universities earlier. At one point I felt stressed because the university I most wanted to attend had not responded yet and the deadlines to confirm my study destination were approaching.

Starting the process earlier would have given me more time and peace of mind during the decision-making process.

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

My main advice would be to research programs, cities, and countries carefully. Studying internationally goes far beyond the academic program; it is also about the cultural, social, and personal experience of living in a different place.

It is also important to have clarity about your goals and what you want to achieve through your studies. Be honest about your motivations and show genuine passion for your work. Most importantly, believe in your story and in yourself.