How I Secured a Fully Funded Master’s at Goldsmiths, University of London, UK Through the Chevening Scholarship

My name is Pedro Almada. I am from Playa del Carmen, Mexico. I currently work with the United Nations as a Data and Optimizations Specialist for UNICEF. Previously, I worked in conflict research. I did my MSc in Data Journalism at Goldsmiths, University of London, as a Chevening Scholar. After my course, I applied for a second grant at Oxford University, where I did a 4-month course on Data Science. Before my master’s, I worked as an Information Manager for a National Geographic project in Mexico about the relationship between society and the environment.

Chevening Scholarship Details

The Chevening Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships in the world and thus is very competitive. It is awarded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. It is a fully funded scholarship to study a master's degree in the UK.

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

Yes, after finishing my Master´s degree, I applied to a 4-month course at Oxford University to study Data Science. I was granted an 80% deduction on tuition.

Educational Background

Before my master's, I did a Bachelor's degree in Administration. I graduated with a GPA of 3.3. However, after finishing my BA, I did an internship in Cairo, Egypt, in an organization that provided aid to refugees. That's where I made sure I wanted to work in something related to the sector.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Goldsmiths, University of London?

I searched for scholarships on the internet, and then read and consumed as much information as possible about the requirements, success stories, tips, etc.

To be accepted, I had to take the IELTS. For this exam, I read the guidebook, read about the best strategies for the test, and took some online preparation classes.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Chevening Scholarship?

I read and consumed as much as possible about the scholarship. I prepared for the job I had at the time by doing things that I knew would relate to the master's and that I could use as leverage for the scholarship interview. I took months writing and perfecting my application, in particular the essays. I asked people I trusted to read and evaluate my essays, and I prepared for the interviews with a professor and other applicants.

How is Your Experience at Goldsmiths, University of London?

For me, it was very good. At first, I doubted my decision, but soon after, I was reminded of why I chose that institution, as it was one of the first in the UK to do what I wanted to learn, and it was the second best in the UK and the 12th best in the world in that area.

How Do You Rate Goldsmiths, University of London, Academically?

In general, I would say it's lacking in a lot of areas, and the standard in some degrees is not the best. But, for my particular course, I would give it an 8/10. My course provided a combination of theory and a lot of practical use for research, and allowed students to explore their interests. Which, in my case, was the relationship between climate and conflict. At the end, I had a solid portfolio of projects to showcase our abilities.

How Does Goldsmiths, University of London Support International Students?

I think the institution was very welcoming to international students, and there were a lot of events and talks to integrate us.

What Did You Pursue After the Chevening Scholarship?

I applied for a lot of jobs. Something worth mentioning is that you could face a steep climb after the masters. I applied for months to almost 100 jobs, until I got a consultancy at The World Bank, and then my current job at UNICEF. So be ready for this, because it's something that can happen, but from what I can see with my fellow Cheveners, with patience and hard work, you can get out of it with a good opportunity. Just wanted to mention that a master's with a prestigious scholarship or at a prestigious institution won't guarantee the job of your dreams right away, but it can happen , in my case, I attribute a lot of my current position to my master's and the Chevening scholarship.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

My passion and the story of my motivations. I would say that I showcased my passion correctly and told a story that resonated. Also, I showed that I've been passionate about and dedicated to this cause.

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

I would probably go deeper into my institution as well as other institutions, just to compare opportunities and paths of learning. I would also probably publish more of my research articles.

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

Don't underestimate the power of preparation. Prepare, prepare, prepare. Take it with the seriousness it deserves. Additionally, you truly need to be committed to your passions and the cause of why you want to study. You can't fake it. If you just want to study a master's for the sake of it, it will show in your essays and/or your interviews. Also, I would strongly suggest using AI tools as little as possible. People can tell when we use AI. Be genuine, be authentic, be you, and do it with passion.