Bestway Foundation Scholar from Pakistan, Maria Shafaqat, Shares Her Journey of Pursuing a Master’s in Biomedicine at the University of Kent, UK

My name is Maria Shafaqat, and I am a graduate of Pharm-D (Doctor of Pharmacy) originally from Pakistan. My academic journey began at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, where I developed a deep fascination with how drugs interact with biological systems. This passion led me to pursue a Master’s in Biomedicine at the University of Kent in the UK. I chose to pivot toward biomedicine because I wanted to move from dispensing treatments to understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms of disease, specifically in areas like recombinant protein production and gene editing.

Bestway Foundation Scholarship Details

I am a proud recipient of the Bestway Foundation Scholarship. This scholarship is specifically designed to support talented students from Pakistan in pursuing postgraduate studies at prestigious UK institutions. It covers full tuition fees, along with some contribution toward the maintenance cost, allowing me to focus entirely on my intensive lab work and research at the University of Kent.

Educational Background

Before coming to the UK, I completed my Pharm-D at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad. My clinical background provided me with a rigorous understanding of pharmacology and human physiology. Maintaining a strong GPA was crucial, but it was the practical experience that truly prepared me. It taught me the leadership and multidisciplinary collaboration skills necessary for a fast-paced program in a foreign country.

Preparing the Application

• Information Gathering: I spent a significant amount of time researching UK universities that offered strong links to the industry. I utilized the University of Kent’s website extensively, specifically looking into the School of Natural Sciences and the research profiles of the faculty.
• Standardized Tests: As an international student, demonstrating English proficiency was a key step. I prepared for the IELTS, focusing on academic writing and technical vocabulary, which has since been invaluable for my module assessments and lab reports.

The Scholarship Application Process

Preparing for the Bestway Foundation Scholarship required a clear "bridge" between my past in Pharmacy and my future in Biomedicine. I had to articulate exactly how a UK education would allow me to contribute back to the scientific community. I focused heavily on my interest in cutting-edge tech, which I have since had the chance to work with in the lab.

Experience at the University of Kent

My experience has been incredibly rewarding. The University of Kent is academically rigorous; for instance, my recent work on gene editing in yeast using the CRISPR -Cas9 system has pushed my technical skills to a professional level. The institution is highly supportive of international students, providing clear guidance on a range of topics, from visa compliance to academic writing style.

What Made My Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because of my clear transition narrative. Rather than just saying I wanted a degree, I showed how my Pharm-D background and my leadership skills made me a candidate who could handle both the clinical and organizational demands of the world.

Advice for Future Applicants

• Connect the Dots: Don’t just list your achievements; tell a story of why this specific degree is the "missing piece" in your career.
• Start Early: Researching scholarships like Bestway takes time. Ensure your personal statement is refined and reflects your genuine interest in your field.
• Be Bold: Moving from Pharmacy to Biomedicine felt like a big leap, but your existing skills are often more transferable than you think!