Hi, I'm Joyce Toh
This is the story of my
Scholarship Journey.

My name is Joyce Toh, and I am a former pharmacist from Malaysia with a deep passion for improving healthcare decision-making. My interest lies in understanding how clinical evidence, economic evaluations, and policy frameworks converge to shape access to innovative medicines. This passion led me to pursue the MSc in Health Policy, Planning and Financing, a prestigious joint program co-designed and co-delivered by the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM).

The Master’s program not only provided me with a strong foundation in key topics such as epidemiology, health economics, and social sciences but also offered invaluable access to the expertise, resources, and networks of two world-renowned institutions. This experience has sharpened my ability to approach healthcare challenges with a broader perspective, blending both academic rigor and practical insights.

Scholarship Details

I was awarded the Chevening Scholarship, a prestigious, fully-funded opportunity sponsored by the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office of the UK Government. Chevening Scholarships are awarded to outstanding emerging leaders from around the globe, enabling them to pursue one-year master’s degrees in the UK. The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel, and living expenses, and is tailored to accommodate the cost of living in various parts of the UK, including London. Every scholar is required to return to their home country for at least two years once their studies in the UK are over.

Educational Background

I hold a Bachelor of Pharmacy (Hons) degree from the International Medical University (IMU) in Malaysia, where I graduated with first-class honors and a CGPA of 3.80. This education provided a solid foundation for my role as a pharmacist trainee and later, as a licensed pharmacist at Kuala Lumpur General Hospital. During my time at the hospital, I was responsible for managing complex reimbursement decisions for special approval medicines under the Ministry of Health.

It was here that I witnessed firsthand the profound impact that access to life-saving treatments—or lack thereof—had on patients. These experiences ignited a desire to explore the mechanisms behind healthcare decision-making in greater depth, especially in terms of policy and financing, with the ultimate goal of improving patient access to essential medicines.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for Scholarships and Institutions?

To prepare for both scholarship and university applications, I took a systematic approach. I thoroughly researched the institutions and courses I was interested in, ensuring I met all eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and other important requirements. I also reached out to past scholarship recipients and alumni of the courses through my personal network and LinkedIn, asking for specific advice rather than open-ended questions to make the process efficient and respectful of their time.

Attending online information sessions hosted by the scholarship organizations and universities was equally valuable, as they provided detailed insights into the application process and selection criteria. Following these organizations on social media helped me stay informed about updates and events relevant to my application.

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 avoid applying to two different master’s courses at the same university, as this led to unnecessary application fees. This was a minor oversight but one that could be avoided with better insight. Overall, I believe my preparation was strong, thanks to careful planning and the generous guidance I received from those who had walked this path before me.

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

To stand out in scholarship applications, it’s crucial to craft a coherent and compelling narrative that weaves together your past experiences, your passion for the field, and your reasons for pursuing your chosen master’s program in the UK. This narrative should also clearly outline your future career goals and how the scholarship and education will help you achieve them.

This approach helped me—and others whom I’ve advised—secure the Chevening Scholarship. By presenting yourself as a candidate with a clear sense of purpose and vision, you can make a strong impression on the selection committee. Good luck!