Bestway Foundation Scholar, Eden Haseeb from Pakistan, Completed an MSc in Biotechnology & Bioengineering at the University of Kent, England

My name is Eden Haseeb, and I come from a family of four. I was born and raised in Karachi, the largest city of Pakistan. My academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering from the NED University of Engineering and Technology, Pakistan, where I graduated with a CGPA of 3.875 out of 4, the second highest in my class. My passion for biomedical sciences and technology motivated me to pursue advanced studies abroad in the field of Biotechnology & Bioengineering, where I could combine my technical background with biological research.

Bestway Foundation Scholarship Details

For my Master’s degree, I was offered several prestigious fully funded scholarships from the University of Kent (England), University of Twente (Netherlands), and the Paris Descartes University (France). I chose to study at the University of Kent because the program aligned perfectly with my academic goals, with a six-month research thesis component that provided in-depth research experience. My Master’s was fully funded through the University of Kent scholarship.

University of Kent (England): Bestway Foundation Scholarship

Degree: MSc Biotechnology & Bioengineering

Amount: 30,000 pounds

University of Twente (Netherlands): University of Twente Scholarship

Degree: Master's in Biomedical Engineering

Amount: 24,000 Euros

Paris Descartes University (France): MIEM Excellence Scholarship

Degree: Master's in Biomedical Sciences

Amount: 10,000 Euros

Educational Background

After completing my MSc in Biotechnology and Bioengineering at the University of Kent, I went on to pursue a PhD in Cellular and Molecular Aspects of Biology at the University of Lille, France. My PhD was funded by the PEARL (Program for Early Stage Researchers in Lille) and partially by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions. During my PhD, I was working on necroptosis, which is a regulated type of cell death involved in different neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases. I focused on finding a novel FDA-approved modulator of this type of cell death, as currently, there is none at the clinic. Finally, studied the modulation of the activity of the kinase of interest through a FRET-based biosensor at the single-cell level.

How I Prepared to Apply to the University of Kent

I began exploring scholarship and program options early during my undergraduate years. I used specific keywords related to my field, such as “funded Master’s in Bioengineering” and “international scholarships for biomedical engineering,” to find opportunities online. I also reached out directly to university admissions offices to inquire about funding options that matched my academic profile. However, I focused more on the Euraxess website to find good PhD opportunities and used to apply from their platform.

Standardized Tests

Most universities require proof of English proficiency, so I took the IELTS exam. I prepared using YouTube tutorials and Cambridge practice books, which helped me achieve an overall band score of 7.5.

Preparing for the Bestway Foundation Scholarship Applications

Each scholarship had slightly different requirements, but I made sure to tailor my motivation letter to each program. I emphasized how my academic background and skills were relevant to the course I was applying for, and how that program would help me achieve my long-term research goals. I believe having relevant experience and skills are crucial aspects of your applications that helps you to stand out among other candidates.

What Made My Application Stand Out

I believe the strength of my motivation letter and my academic performance played the most important roles. I demonstrated a clear connection between my previous experiences and the program objectives, and I highlighted how I planned to apply the skills gained to future research, as I wanted to do a PhD afterwards in Cell Biology.

What I Would Have Done Differently

If I were to go through the process again, I would have focused more on networking, which could have helped me to find more opportunities. Also, gaining relevant work experience can be essential as well and can help to strengthen your application.

Advice for Future Applicants

Focus on scholarships and programs that closely match your academic profile and career goals. This makes it easier to craft a strong and authentic motivation letter. Also, don’t hesitate to contact university departments directly, as they could be helpful. Most importantly, do not be discouraged if your application is not accepted, and treat it as a learning moment. When I started applying initially, I faced a lot of challenges, but it was my resilience and persistence that kept me going, and I finally got good positions.