How I Secured a Partially Funded Bachelor’s at the University of Leeds, United Kingdom Through the Laidlaw Foundation Undergraduate Leadership and Research Scholarship

Hello! My name is Nadine, and I am an international student from Jordan studying in the UK. This autumn, I’ll be entering my second year as a BSc (Hons) Genetics student at the University of Leeds. I am interested in pursuing a career in research and global health, with a particular focus on cardiovascular science and immunology. I chose to study genetics because I am interested in understanding the science behind disease and how research can lead to better healthcare outcomes. My long-term goal is to contribute to biomedical research and improve global patient care by combining scientific research with effective science communication. Alongside my studies, I actively engage in research, leadership, volunteering, and medical communications.

Laidlaw Foundation Undergraduate Leadership and Research Scholarship Details

I was awarded the Laidlaw Foundation Undergraduate Leadership and Research Scholarship at the University of Leeds. I receive a total of £6600 split across two consecutive summers to financially support me in fulfilling the scholar outcomes.

My first summer consists of a 6-week lab research project in the field of cardiometabolic disease, which I’ve completed under the supervision of Dr. Hema Visambharan at the Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Medicine (LICAMM). The second summer consists of a 6-week Leadership-in-Action project that is to be completed abroad to equip students with a global-minded perspective, which calls for the application of the scholar’s research in a real-world setting.

As part of my scholarship, I'm conducting research on a novel molecular pathway involved in cardiovascular complications associated with insulin resistance, an area that closely aligns with my interests in cardiovascular science and molecular genetics. The scholarship has also given me access to leadership development training, the chance to network across an inspiring community of scholars at conference events, and opportunities that will continue shaping my career long after the research project ends.

What attracted me most to the Laidlaw Program was that it develops both researchers and leaders. Many scholarship programs focus solely on academic achievement, but Laidlaw recognises that solving global challenges requires people who can conduct rigorous research while also leading ethically, collaborating across disciplines, and creating positive social impact. That combination aligned perfectly with the type of scientist I aspire to be.

Educational Background

I completed the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program at Dubai International Academy, graduating with 35 out of 45 points before beginning my Genetics undergraduate degree at the University of Leeds.

The IB program challenged me to think critically, conduct independent research, and manage a demanding workload. These experiences prepared me well for studying genetics at university and strengthened my interest in biomedical sciences.

Since starting university, I have built practical laboratory, programming, and scientific writing skills while studying subjects including genetics, immunology, microbiology, medicinal chemistry, cancer biology, and AI in healthcare, all of which have made me more qualified for my specific field.

How Did You Find Information About Laidlaw Foundation Undergraduate Leadership and Research Scholarship and University of Leeds?

Mostly through my University’s Faculty of Biological Sciences (FBS) careers newsletter, which was sent to us on a biweekly basis and signposted me to all scholarship and internship opportunities available for FBS students.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Laidlaw Foundation Undergraduate Leadership and Research Scholarship?

I reflected on my experiences and connected them to my long-term goals in healthcare and research. I revised my personal statement multiple times and sought feedback from mentors at my University’s careers service to ensure my application clearly demonstrated leadership, academic commitment, and a desire to create positive social impact.

How is Your Experience at the University of Leeds?

My experience at the University of Leeds has been incredibly fulfilling, both academically and personally. Since joining the university, I've been encouraged to explore opportunities beyond my degree, whether through research internships, leadership programs, student societies, volunteering, or professional development. That culture of saying "yes" to new opportunities has allowed me to grow in ways I hadn't anticipated when I first arrived.

One of the highlights of my experience has undoubtedly been becoming a Laidlaw Scholar. The program has introduced me to an inspiring community of students from a wide range of disciplines who all share a commitment to leadership and creating positive social impact. It's refreshing to be surrounded by people who are not only academically talented but also genuinely motivated to make a difference in their communities.

Academically, I've appreciated how approachable lecturers and researchers are. From engaging with research papers before applying to Laidlaw to now working directly within a research group, I've found that staff are incredibly supportive of undergraduate students who demonstrate curiosity and initiative.

Outside of academics, the University of Leeds has given me countless opportunities to become involved in the wider community. Through roles with the International Welcome Team, Leeds Marrow, Leeds Heart Beats, and the Faculty of Biological Sciences' Global Community Builders, I've met people from all over the world while developing leadership, communication, and teamwork skills that complement my academic studies and career ambitions.

Similarly, my experience with the Laidlaw Foundation has been extremely positive. What makes the program unique is that it doesn't simply fund undergraduate research; it invests in developing ethical, globally minded leaders. The emphasis on leadership development alongside academic excellence has challenged me to think beyond the laboratory and consider how research can create meaningful societal impact. I also value the Foundation's commitment to bringing together scholars from diverse disciplines and backgrounds, creating an environment where collaboration and different perspectives are encouraged and supported.

How Does the University of Leeds Support International Students?

As an international student myself, I've found the University of Leeds to be very welcoming and supportive. From the moment students arrive, there are numerous initiatives designed to help them settle into university life, build friendships, and navigate living in a new country.

Having worked as an International Welcome Team Assistant, I've seen this support from both perspectives. My role involves welcoming new international students, helping with orientation events such as the Global Café socials, and creating opportunities for students from different backgrounds to connect. It's been rewarding to help new students feel at home while also experiencing firsthand how much effort the university invests in building an inclusive community.

Beyond formal support services, I think one of the University's greatest strengths is the diversity of its student community. Through volunteering, societies, and programs like Global Community Builders, I've had the opportunity to collaborate with people from many different cultures and disciplines. Those experiences have made the transition to studying abroad much easier while broadening my own perspective.

The Laidlaw Foundation also contributes to this sense of belonging by fostering an international network of scholars who share similar values despite coming from very different academic disciplines and cultural backgrounds. That global outlook encourages collaboration, mutual learning, and leadership that is informed by diverse perspectives.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because it offered a genuine account of my goals and ambitions. Rather than focusing on collecting achievements, I demonstrated a sustained commitment to improving healthcare through research, leadership, education, and science communication.

Before university, I led international health education initiatives and developed a scholarship program for students pursuing healthcare degrees. At university, I continued this commitment through medical writing, cardiovascular research, volunteering with health charities, and supporting international students as they transition to university life.

I also think the scholarship committee recognised that I wasn't only interested in conducting research, but rather I wanted to use research to improve people's lives. My experiences in healthcare volunteering, science communication, and leadership all reinforced this goal, making my application authentic and purpose-driven.

I also demonstrated that I had done my homework. Before applying, I had already read publications by the academics leading the research projects I was interested in and could explain exactly why their work fascinated me. Rather than saying I was interested in cardiovascular disease generally, I discussed specific molecular mechanisms and how they connected with my previous experience in medical communications and my future research ambitions.

Finally, I think the committee saw that I viewed leadership as more than holding positions. My experiences have taught me that leadership is about empathy, collaboration, and empowering others.

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

I would’ve done more planning on potential Leadership-in-Action projects that could build upon my research so I could use the application to showcase my long-term planning abilities and get some input from the selection team on the feasibility of my ideas in terms of funding and time available.

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

My biggest piece of advice is to build an authentic narrative, not just a CV. The Laidlaw Scholarship isn't looking for students with perfect CVs; it is looking for students who are genuinely curious, committed to making a positive impact, and willing to grow as leaders.

Show a clear connection between your academic interests, extracurricular activities, and future aspirations. Reflect on the impact you've had rather than simply listing responsibilities, and don't be afraid to discuss lessons learned from setbacks or difficult experiences.

I'd also encourage applicants to be genuinely curious. If you're applying for a research program, read papers from potential supervisors, explore the wider field, and think critically about why the work excites you.

Finally, remember that leadership comes in many forms. You don't need to have founded multiple organisations or held prestigious titles. Demonstrating initiative, empathy, resilience, and a genuine commitment to serving others can be just as powerful as traditional leadership roles.