Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scholar Dr. Priyanka Sheoran from India Shares Her Journey of Securing a Fully Funded Master's at the University of Chester, United Kingdom

I am Dr. Priyanka Sheoran, originally from Haryana, India. By profession, I am a veterinarian, and by passion, I am deeply committed to wildlife conservation.

I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Sciences from LUVAS, Hisar, Haryana. Since my home state is largely agriculture-oriented, most of our practical training focused on domestic animals. However, I always felt a strong curiosity about wild animals and conservation efforts in India. This interest motivated me to pursue higher studies in wildlife conservation.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Details

In 2022, I was awarded the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship to pursue a Master’s degree in Wildlife Conservation at the University of Chester in the UK. This fully funded scholarship, offered by the UK government, supports talented students and prepares them to become future leaders and innovators in their home countries.

During my BVSc & AH, I achieved a GPA of 7.2 out of 10, and I graduated with distinction in my MSc in Wildlife Conservation.

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

While preparing for the scholarship, I connected with previous recipients and regularly followed updates on the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s official website. I also took the IELTS exam as part of the eligibility criteria and scored an overall band of 7. My preparation mainly involved studying through YouTube resources and practising with sample papers from supplementary materials.
I carefully reviewed the application guidelines provided by the Commission to understand their expectations, which helped me keep my responses clear and focused. Additionally, I referred to videos of past Commonwealth Scholars to learn how they structured their statements. I realized the importance of writing authentically—ensuring that my application reflected my personality, aspirations, and long-term goals after completing the degree.

What Did You Pursue After the Scholarship? (Work, Further Study, Research, or Something Else?)

After finishing my studies, I returned to India and began working in the field of wildlife conservation. Currently, I practice as a wildlife veterinarian and have collaborated with several NGOs. My experience spans multiple roles, from working as a field veterinarian to serving as a project manager at the national level.

Throughout my application, I made a conscious effort to highlight my passion for wildlife conservation and clearly define the impact I aimed to create after completing my master’s degree in the UK.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

In my opinion, my application stood out because it clearly reflected my genuine passion for wildlife conservation. I ensured that my statements were focused, authentic, and aligned with my career goals after completing the degree. Additionally, I had a strong academic background, relevant veterinary experience, and a well-defined vision of how I wanted to contribute to wildlife conservation in India.

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

If I were to go through the process again, I would start my preparation even earlier and seek more detailed feedback on my application drafts from mentors or previous scholars. I might also explore additional practical experiences or certifications in wildlife conservation beforehand to further strengthen my profile.

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

I would advise applicants to thoroughly understand the scholarship guidelines and tailor their application accordingly. Be honest and clear in your statements, and ensure they genuinely reflect your personality, goals, and future impact. Connect with alumni if possible, stay updated through official sources, and prepare well for required tests like IELTS. Most importantly, demonstrate a clear vision of how the scholarship will help you contribute meaningfully to your field and your home country.