How a Ghanaian Nursing Student Earned a Fully Funded MasterCard Foundation Scholarship to Study at KNUST

My name is Richard Marfo, and I come from Sunyani, Ghana. I have always been passionate about healthcare and community development, and this inspired me to pursue a career in nursing. Growing up in a low-income community, I witnessed the challenges many people face in accessing quality healthcare. These experiences sparked my interest in becoming a healthcare professional who could not only provide care but also promote health at the community level. This passion led me to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana. My desire to improve health outcomes, particularly among underserved populations, strongly influenced my decision to pursue a career in health.

MasterCard Foundation Scholarship Details

I was privileged to receive the prestigious MasterCard Foundation Scholarship to study at KNUST. This fully funded scholarship covered my tuition, accommodation, books, monthly stipend, and other essential needs throughout my four years of study. The scholarship is awarded to bright but economically disadvantaged students who have demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to giving back to their communities. Being selected as a MasterCard Scholar was life-changing. It gave me access to quality education and personal development programs that helped shape who I am today.

Educational Background

Before gaining admission to KNUST, I completed my senior high school education at Odomaseman Senior High School at Sunyani, Ghana, where I studied General Science. I performed strongly in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), which laid the academic foundation for my nursing education. At KNUST, I graduated with a strong academic record in Nursing, which combined theory with practical hospital rotations and community outreach. The curriculum equipped me with a solid understanding of health promotion, disease prevention, and clinical care. My involvement in extracurricular activities such as student leadership and health outreach programs also prepared me to apply what I learned in real-world settings.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Institutions?

When I was in SHS, I knew I wanted to pursue nursing at one of the best universities in Ghana. I spent time researching health science programs and learning about KNUST’s strong nursing department. I gathered information through university websites and alumni who had studied at KNUST. I paid close attention to the program requirements and the MasterCard Foundation Scholarship application process. I also worked hard to maintain good grades and build leadership skills through church and community volunteering, knowing these would strengthen my application for the nursing program and scholarship.

In Ghana, the primary academic qualification for university entry is the WASSCE, so I did not take international tests like the SAT or TOEFL at the time. However, I took my WASSCE preparation seriously, studying consistently, joining group study sessions, and attending vacation classes to reinforce key science subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Elective mathematics, and Physics, which are critical for nursing programs.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the MasterCard Foundation Scholarship?

The MasterCard Foundation Scholarship was highly competitive, so I prepared diligently. I started by reading the eligibility criteria and understanding the values of the program, which are leadership, academic excellence, and a commitment to service. I then focused on writing a compelling personal essay that told my story about how I grew up in a resource-limited environment, my passion for healthcare, and my dreams of giving back to society. I asked mentors and teachers to review my essay and provide feedback. I also submitted strong academic transcripts and recommendation letters from my school and community leaders who knew about my work ethic and dedication.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my story stood out because it was authentic and showed resilience. I clearly demonstrated the challenges I faced, how I overcame them, and my commitment to using education to impact lives. My community involvement, especially my volunteer work in community clean-ups and youth mentorship, reflected the kind of leadership and service the MasterCard Foundation values. My academic potential and future vision also aligned with the scholarship’s goal of developing transformative leaders in Africa.

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

If I had the opportunity to go through the process again, I would have started preparing earlier by documenting my leadership and volunteer activities in more detail. I would also have sought more mentorship from past beneficiaries to gain insights and guidance on improving my application. Starting early can help reduce pressure and allow more time to refine personal statements and application documents.

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

Review the eligibility requirements early and start preparing your documents and essays. Also, believe in your story and present it in an authentic manner. The MasterCard Foundation Scholarship is not only about academic excellence but also about leadership, service, and your desire to make a difference. Take time to reflect on your journey and communicate it clearly in your application. Focus on your strengths and how you have made a positive impact despite your circumstances. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help from teachers, mentors, and friends. They can support you by reviewing your essays and encouraging you through the process. Finally, stay true to your values and let your passion for learning and service shine through.