Scholarship Success Story – Nemer

My name is Nemer, also known as John, originally from Palestine/Jordan. I have a strong passion for engineering, especially in fields related to fire safety and sustainability. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at Eastern Mediterranean University in Northern Cyprus, graduating as the top student in my department. Motivated by a desire to deepen my expertise and contribute to safer and more resilient built environments, I pursued a Master’s degree in Fire Safety Engineering through the prestigious Erasmus Mundus IMFSE program, which exposed me to multiple leading European institutions. Later, I was selected to participate in a Marie Skłodowska-Curie-funded PhD project (PyroLife) in France, focusing on wildfire risk management in the wildland-urban interface.

Scholarship Details

• Erasmus Mundus IMFSE Scholarship (IMFSE consortium universities: Ghent University, Lund University, University of Edinburgh)
  • Full tuition and living stipend covering the duration of the two-year Master’s program.
• Marie Skłodowska-Curie ITN Research Grant (PyroLife project) at INRAE, France
  • Research funding over multiple years, supporting doctoral research focused on mitigating wildfire propagation and its impact on buildings.
• Northern Cyprus Government Scholarship for my Bachelor’s degree, covering tuition and living expenses.

Were You Offered any Other Scholarships?

Yes, I was offered several additional scholarships and research grants, including:

• ITECONS Portugal Research Scholarship (€36,000 over three years) – focused on urban firefighting and AI applications (declined)
• University of Alberta Top Prospective Student Scholarship and RA/TA positions (declined)
• TÜBİTAK National Research Scholarship (declined)
• Romanian Government Master’s Scholarship (declined)
• Global Sustainable Electricity Partnership Scholarship for renewable energy studies (declined)

Educational Background

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering – Graduated top of my class, receiving 8 High Honour Certificates for academic excellence.
• Master of Science in Fire Safety Engineering through the Erasmus Mundus IMFSE program – A highly selective program involving study across Belgium, Sweden, and the UK.
• Partial PhD research under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie PyroLife ITN, focusing on wildfire risk in wildland-urban interfaces (ESR 8).

My strong foundational engineering knowledge, combined with international research experience, provided the technical and analytical skills necessary to excel in fire safety engineering and related fields.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Institutions?

I researched programs that aligned with my career goals, using university websites, scholarship portals, and guidance from professors and mentors. I engaged with alumni networks and attended webinars to understand program expectations and opportunities.

How Did You Find Information About Erasmus Mundus Scholarships and Institutions?

Main sources included:

• Erasmus Mundus official website and scholarship databases
• University portals and academic forums
• Recommendations from professors and industry contacts
• LinkedIn and academic social media groups

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare?

Yes, I took the IELTS to meet the English language requirements. I prepared through a combination of practice exams, language courses, and immersive English environments, focusing on achieving a score above the minimum requirement to ensure eligibility.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Scholarship?

I prepared detailed personal statements highlighting my academic achievements, leadership roles, and passion for fire safety and sustainability. I gathered strong letters of recommendation, meticulously compiled transcripts, and aligned my research interests with the scholarship’s mission. I also demonstrated my commitment through extracurricular activities and publications.

How Is (was) Your Experience at the Institution?

My experience was enriching and transformative. Studying across several European universities provided me with diverse perspectives, strong academic rigor, and opportunities to collaborate with leading experts. The multicultural environment sharpened my communication and leadership skills.

How Do You Rate the Institutions Academically and Why?

The IMFSE consortium is highly regarded worldwide for its rigorous curriculum and research excellence in fire safety engineering. The institutions involved offer state-of-the-art facilities and connections to industry leaders, providing excellent academic and professional preparation.

How Do the Institutions and the Program Support International Students?

The Erasmus Mundus program provides comprehensive support, including scholarships, orientation, language training, and cultural integration activities. Universities offer student counseling, academic support, and career services tailored to international students’ needs.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or the Country’s Native Language?

Classes were conducted entirely in English, facilitating a uniform learning environment for international students.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically Not Knowing the Native Language?

Not applicable as the instruction was in English. However, cultural adaptation remains important and was supported by the institutions.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

My consistent academic excellence, demonstrated leadership (such as representing international students and ASME Cyprus chapter), combined with my practical experience (internship at NAFFCO, university agent role), and a clear research focus on pressing global issues like wildfire safety, made my application compelling. Additionally, my ability to communicate and collaborate across cultures strengthened my profile.

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

I would start my scholarship search and application preparations earlier and build a broader network of alumni and mentors for guidance. I would also seek to publish research sooner to enhance my academic profile.

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

• Start early and be organized with your application materials.
• Highlight your unique story and how your goals align with the scholarship’s objectives.
• Seek leadership and community engagement opportunities to demonstrate well-roundedness.
• Network with current or past scholars to gain insights and advice.
• Be authentic and clear about your passion and career vision.