How a Mauritian Human Resource Graduate Secured the Fully Funded Chevening Scholarship to Study International Development at Birkbeck, University of London

My name is Florinette Cupidon, a proud recipient of the Chevening Scholarship for the year 2022-2023. I was born and raised on the small island of Rodrigues, part of the Republic of Mauritius. My academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management, but my passion for addressing broader global challenges inspired me to pursue an MSc in International Development at Birkbeck, University of London.

This shift was a pivotal moment for me. I wanted to deepen my understanding of development issues and equip myself with the knowledge and skills to drive meaningful change. As a transformative leader, I founded the Glitternoire Community, an initiative dedicated to showcasing and empowering women who are striving to elevate their lives. This Master's program provided me with the global perspective and critical thinking skills I needed to further my mission of empowerment.

For me, pursuing this degree wasn’t just about academic growth—it was about becoming better equipped to uplift others, advocate for change, and contribute to sustainable development in my community and beyond.

Chevening Scholarship Details

I am deeply honoured to have been selected by the British Embassy of Mauritius as a recipient of the Chevening Scholarship, a prestigious and fully-funded award by the UK Government. The Chevening Scholarship is one of the most competitive and distinguished scholarships globally, aimed at identifying and supporting future leaders and change-makers.

Being awarded this scholarship was truly life-changing. It covered full tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other essential allowances, enabling me to pursue my MSc in International Development at Birkbeck, University of London.
This opportunity not only provided me with access to world-class education but also allowed me to be part of a global network of influential leaders. It affirmed my commitment to driving positive change and empowered me to further develop my leadership skills and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to my community and beyond.

Educational Background

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management from the University of Mascareignes, Mauritius, where I developed a strong foundation in organisational development, leadership, and people management. My academic journey equipped me with critical skills such as strategic thinking, communication, and problem-solving, which are essential in driving change within organisations and communities.

While my undergraduate studies were rooted in Human Resources, my growing passion for addressing broader global challenges inspired me to pivot towards International Development. I wanted to understand the dynamics of development, sustainability, and social change on a global scale. This academic background, combined with over two years of professional experience, provided me with the practical insights and critical perspective necessary to engage deeply with development issues.

This foundation was pivotal in shaping my application for the Chevening Scholarship and in preparing me for the rigorous academic journey of my MSc in International Development at Birkbeck, University of London. It allowed me to approach global development challenges with both a human-centered and a strategic lens.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Birkbeck, University of London?

I began preparing my Chevening Scholarship application one year in advance to ensure I was thoroughly informed and well-prepared. My first step was to conduct detailed research on UK universities and the programs they offered that aligned with my academic and career goals. I explored university websites, reviewed course structures, and inquired about entry requirements, facilities, services, and overall student experience.

Additionally, the Chevening website provided clear guidelines regarding the application process, eligibility criteria, and required documentation. One key requirement was selecting three universities, either offering the same course or different ones. I carefully evaluated my options and ultimately chose Birkbeck, University of London, as London is one of my favourite cities and offers a vibrant, diverse environment for both personal and academic growth.

Regarding standardised tests, the IELTS was a requirement. I took the IELTS examination at IDP Mauritius and successfully passed it by meeting the English language proficiency standards, so I did not need to undertake additional language testing. However, I ensured my academic transcripts and supporting documents were meticulously prepared to meet the Chevening and university standards.
This early preparation allowed me to submit a strong, well-informed application that reflected my dedication and readiness for this transformative journey..

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Chevening Scholarship?

I began preparing for the Chevening Scholarship one year in advance, understanding that it required careful planning and reflection. My preparation started with thorough research about the scholarship's requirements, the universities, and the programs that aligned with my career aspirations.

A key part of the application process involved writing four essays focused on Leadership, Networking, Career plans, and Study in the UK. In these essays, I had to demonstrate how the scholarship would contribute to my personal growth and career development while also explaining how the skills and knowledge gained would be used to advance my home country and empower my community. To ensure my essays were strong and error-free, I sought feedback from a lecturer, who helped me refine my writing, minimize grammar mistakes, and enhance my vocabulary.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe what made my application stand out was my genuine and authentic approach. I shared real experiences that showcased my leadership potential, my commitment to community development through initiatives like Glitternoire Community, and my clear vision for how I would use the scholarship to create a lasting impact in Rodrigues and Mauritius. I was intentional in aligning my essays with Chevening's core values, and I believe my passion and purpose came through strongly.

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 probably start networking earlier with Chevening alumni and attend more webinars to gain deeper insights into what makes a successful application. This would have provided me with broader perspectives and helped refine my approach further.

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

For anyone looking to apply for a similar scholarship, my key advice is:
• Start early and do thorough research about the scholarship, universities, and programs.
• Be genuine in your essays—share authentic stories and experiences that reflect who you are.
• Seek feedback from mentors or lecturers to help strengthen your application.
• Prepare confidently for the interview, knowing your essays inside out, and be ready to clearly communicate your goals and motivations.

Remember, confidence comes from clarity—know what you want and be able to articulate it with conviction.