Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholar, Kaifi Ansari from India, Shares Her Journey of Pursuing a Master’s at the Centre for Modern Indian Studies (CeMIS), University of Göttingen

My name is Kaifi Ansari. I am from Uttar Pradesh, India. I am a first-generation learner. I am currently studying a master's at the Centre for Modern Indian Studies (CEMIS) at the University of Göttingen. Before this scholarship, I had supported my education by working part-time and doing some small work. I was selected for the programme through the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung's scholarship.

Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung's Scholarship Details

I received a scholarship from Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung, and I am studying at the University of Göttingen. I get paid the basic minimum amount, which is required in Germany.

Educational Background

This is my second master's. I already hold a master's degree in Political Science from Jawaharlal Nehru University. My bachelor's was also in Political Science(Hons). My previous educational training helped me form my academic interest, which suited the CEMIS. In my bachelor’s, I scored 64% and 60% in my first master’s.

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

The advertisement about this scholarship came in one of my WhatsApp groups. I read and came to know about the institution through the advertisement for a scholarship. I didn't take any standardised language test as my previous master's was in English, and I took a written document from my previous University, which mentioned my English language skills.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung's Scholarship?

This scholarship was a targeted scholarship for students coming from the background of religious minorities, first-generation learners, working-class parents or Schedule Caste or Schedule Tribe. Except for the fourth one, I qualified in all three categories. It was for the students who were engaged in the socio-political events of India. I had to show my commitment towards the Political integrity of larger left politics.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or German?

In English.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically Not Knowing German?

The course is in English. It is named CeMIS, but it is like South Asian Studies.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

My commitment towards pursuing my education, fighting against all the odds of my life. How my academic understanding was formed and reflected through gender and social justice.

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

When this scholarship was first advertised, I doubted myself so much that I ended up not applying. When this scholarship came for the second time, I applied. I wish I could trust myself more. I could believe more in my commitment to pursue my education, coming as a first-generation woman learner. I could have trusted my learning, which was from a

government school and a Hindi medium during my bachelor's.

I wish I had applied for more scholarships and more programmes.

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

• Trust yourself and your learning.
• Start preparing early so you are not stressed or burned out.
• Consider more options.
• Be ready for Plan B.