Stipendium Hungaricum Scholar, Glyssa May Bosquit from the Philippines, Earns a Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering at the University of Debrecen, Hungary

Szia! My name is Glyssa May Bosquit. I hail from Cebu, Philippines, but I’ve been living in Europe since 2020. Currently, I am doing an internship at the CTBTO Preparatory Commission located at the Vienna International Centre, where I contribute to the progressive commissioning and validation of the International Data Centre and monitoring systems. These are key components in the organization’s global nuclear-test-ban verification regime.

After my internship, I want to pursue my master’s and specialize in nuclear physics or nuclear engineering, if life goes according to my plans.

Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Details

I was the recipient of the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship (2020-2024), which is a flagship programme for foreign students founded by the Hungarian Government in 2013. It is supervised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and managed by the Tempus Public Foundation. It is based on bilateral education agreements between Hungary and the governments of the sending countries.

The scholarship covers tuition fees, a monthly stipend, accommodation allowance, and medical insurance. For more details, you can check here: https://stipendiumhungaricum.hu

Were You Offered any Other Scholarships?

In 2024, I was offered three scholarships, but I declined due to insufficient financial capacity to cover the remaining costs. These are the following:

Partial Scholarship from the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's SARENA

Deutschlandstipendium

Technical University of Munich offers merit-based and need-based tuition waivers for international students

Educational Background

I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering (with an outstanding qualification) at the University of Debrecen. My thesis explores the synthesis and characterization of a manganese(II) complex based on a pyclen derivative with pyridin-(2-yl)methanol pendant arms, intended to serve as a pH-responsive probe for enhanced MRI applications. The work investigates ligand structure, stability, and magnetic properties, targeting improved contrast performance in biomedical imaging contexts.

Drawing from my experience, I want to contribute to the advancements of nuclear science in medicine while ensuring that scientific progress translates to tangible benefits for society.

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

The scholarship application process involves a concurrent university application. I applied through the scholarship portal and submitted my documents, such as a motivation letter, recommendation letter, transcripts of records, high school diploma, etc. I also sent a hard copy of my application documents to CHED-IAS, which is the sending partner of the SH scholarship in the Philippines. After a few weeks, I got invited to an interview by CHED-IAS and was nominated for the scholarship. My chosen universities then contacted me for admission exams and interviews. In preparation, I only reviewed my notes from my previous university and answered the practice tests provided. I was drawn to the University of Debrecen primarily because of its strong international standing and the architectural beauty of its main campus building.

How Did You Find Information About Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarships and University of Debrecen?

I didn’t discover the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship myself. My friend found it in her email spam folder. At that time, we were looking for scholarships abroad, but SH was the only ideal match to our needs, educational background, and future plans. So, we applied, got accepted, and set out on a once-in-a-lifetime academic journey together.

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

No, I did not take standardized tests. I simply requested a certificate from my previous university confirming that the language of instruction was English.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship?

Besides preparing the other required documents, I crafted a compelling motivation letter outlining my educational background, suitability for the scholarship, and future contributions to the academic community and to my home country. During my interview preparation, I focused on demonstrating that I was a deserving candidate and that I intended to make the most of the opportunity.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe three key factors made my application stand out: (1) my dedication and commitment to help advance nuclear science programs in my country, which was evident in my motivation letter and during the interview, (2) the way I told my story of being a first-generation university student doing her best to break the cycle, (3) excellent grades and strong academic reputation.

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

If I could go through it again, I would have trusted the process more and been less anxious about the outcome. I was too engrossed trying to achieve the perfect candidate profile and was consumed by worries of not being able to make the cut. I would have worn confidence like a flower crown, trusting completely in my ability to achieve my dreams.

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

Someone told me that, “Surely, something out there is meant for you. Both you and this opportunity are navigating a maze to find one another. You must keep moving forward, as there's no telling when you will meet.”

The application process is too tedious and daunting, but you have to keep going. Start early and stay organized. Gather all your required documents and tailor your motivation letter. Take time to reflect on what truly motivates you, how you will succeed in your chosen program, and what questions you wish to answer. Prepare well and practice for your interviews.

Despite your doubts and fear, submit that application. Perhaps you are the only one preventing yourself from embarking on the greatest adventure of your life. Life is short, so be brave enough to try. Be brave enough to fail. Be brave enough to try again. Always be brave enough to act on your dreams.