How a Social Worker from Buxar, Bihar India Earned the Chevening Scholarship for a Master’s in Governance, Development & Public Policy at the University of Sussex

Born in the remotest district of Buxar, my life has been challenging and tough. Childhood experiences have led me to solve personal life problems. I can recall supporting my parents to earn a livelihood when your family was facing a financial crisis.

From being in a situation of losing hope and merely aspiring to survive the journey, to eventually completing my Master’s in the UK, it has been a long and transformative path. I am proud to be, so far, the only person from the Buxar District of Bihar to receive the prestigious Chevening Scholarship.

After completing my first Master’s in Social Work and gaining six years of experience from grassroots to boardroom, from being an implementer to contributing to policy design, I have come to deeply understand the critical role public policies play in shaping lives. While working closely on Bihar State Government projects, I witnessed how each sentence in a policy document can impact millions. Every policy carries multi-dimensional effects and long-term consequences, which sparked my keen interest in strengthening my knowledge and skills in policy-making for the masses.

To pursue this interest, I completed a second Master’s in Governance, Development, and Public Policy at the Institute of Development Studies (IDS), University of Sussex, through the Chevening Scholarship. The program offered in-depth training on reforming and improving public services and understanding policy-making processes. With IDS holding the QS Global Ranking #1 in Development Studies, it provided me with unmatched opportunities for intensive research and academic growth.

This journey has been long, challenging, and incredibly rewarding. I carry with me not just academic learnings, but a renewed commitment to contribute meaningfully to inclusive and impactful policy-making. Currently, I am working with BRAC International, the world's largest International NGO, and working on designing a national policy for extremely vulnerable and poor households for achieving the aim of “No one left behind.”

Scholarship Details

Chevening Scholarship 2022 -2023.

Selected among the top 2% of the total 64000 applicants across the globe.

Master’s in Governance, Development, and Public Policy at the Institute of Development Studies (IDS), University of Sussex.

Amount received: It was a fully funded scholarship.
GBP 34605 (UK Pounds)

Educational Background

My educational background and professional experience have shaped my career aspirations towards designing public policies that are pro-poor and community-driven. This has instilled in me a strong commitment to contribute meaningfully to the wider society by engaging in policy formulation and developing systems that drive sustainable change. Here are details of my previous degrees mentioned below:

• Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, India
• M.A. in Social Work (Livelihoods & Social Entrepreneurship) | 2014-2016 | 7.7/10
• Hansraj College, University of Delhi, India
• B.A. (Economics & Philosophy) | 2011-2014

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Institutions?

I was resolute in my decision to apply to top QS-ranked universities in the United Kingdom offering programmes in Public Policy and Governance. Following a thorough review of course structures and semester-wise content across various institutions, I shortlisted five universities that closely aligned with my academic interests and career aspirations. I proceeded to apply to four of them, carefully tailoring each Statement of Purpose to reflect the specific requirements and ethos of the respective universities. I was subsequently offered unconditional admission by three institutions: the University of Sussex, SOAS University of London, and the University of Leeds. As the University of Sussex was my top choice, owing to its academic excellence and the relevance of its curriculum, I accepted their offer.

As English was the medium of instruction throughout my education, I was exempted from submitting any standardised English language test scores. Prior to arriving in the United Kingdom, I had some reservations regarding tone and pronunciation. However, once I reached Brighton, I found it relatively easy to adapt and connect with both the local community and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Chevening Scholarship?

I got to know about this scholarship and course through alumni of the Chevening Scholarship. I diligently followed the instructions and guidelines of the Chevening scholarship through its website https://www.chevening.org/. There are many learning videos and experiences shared by alumni on this website that one must go through during the application process.

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

My experience at the Institute of Development Studies and the University of Sussex has been nothing short of amazing. The warm culture and vibrant ecosystem fostered an environment where I could explore different cultures, cuisines, and, most importantly, understand diverse perspectives before concluding. IDS has given me a worldwide view to understand different perspectives with a nuanced understanding for policy making.

How Do You Rate the University of Sussex Academically and Why?

It has a great learning culture and space to discuss, question, and share own thoughts.

 How Does the University of Sussex Support International Students?

There is a separate committee for International Students under the Student Union, and I was elected as Post Graduate Officer to raise the voices of International students. I was awarded the One World Sussex Award for being the most active member of the International Committee.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

Being truthful and well-researched. Writing several drafts and I got the right mentor to guide me for this scholarship.

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

Nothing much. The application process was smooth, and I gave my 100% for the application.

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

Read, learn, unlearn, be dedicated, and focused on your goal. Please follow the instructions and learning videos from the official website  https://www.chevening.org/. Be grounded, truthful, and well aware and informed about the guidelines during the application.