How a Syrian Medical Professional Secured the Fully Funded Chevening Scholarship for an MSc in Global Mental Health at the University of Glasgow

I’m Yara Aleid. I come from the Middle East from Syria specifically. In 2024, I completed my master’s degree in Global Mental Health at the University of Glasgow. I chose this field because I wanted to explore the world of mental health in a more detailed way. I also wanted to explore the integration between mental and physical health and how they affect each other especially in children and adolescents.

Chevening Scholarship Details

In 2023, I was lucky to win the prestigious Chevening Scholarship to travel to the UK and study one year master’s program at any university of my choice. This scholarship is a fully funded scholarship from the UK’s government. It covers all tuition fees, health insurance, travel expenses, visa fees and provides you with a monthly stipend. So, you can focus on your studies and not worry about money.

Educational Background

I graduated from Damascus University Faculty of Medicine in 2021. Then, I started a residency training in Paediatrics. I gained a holistic understanding of the human body, and my interest was mainly on children’s health. During my residency, I was exposed to a lot of physical diseases. But I was more interested in the integration of mental and physical diseases and how one can cause the other. For this reason, I wanted to pursue higher education in mental health.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the University of Glasgow?

Firstly, I looked at the universities that provide the program that I wanted then shortlisted them according to the cities they are in and the modules that I liked most. I selected only 4 universities to make it easier for me to apply and prepare good applications. I prepared good personal statements and made sure to include as much details as possible. I also did the IELTS exam and got a high band in it, so I think that helped me get accepted.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Chevening Scholarship?

I started preparing 2 years before I submitted my application. I did research about the scholarship and gathered as much details as possible to form a good holistic idea about it. I also listened to real stories from people who went through the process before me. I read a lot of Chevening essays to have an idea on how to structure my own. Lastly, I had good advice from people who won the scholarship and studied the same program as me, so their advice was relevant.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

My essays were very personal and detailed. I put so much excitement and emotions in preparing my application and I think that was evident for the people who read and evaluated my application.

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

I would have prepared more for the IELTS exam and aimed for a higher band. I would have also explored the university options more.

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

I would tell them to trust themselves and their own abilities and achievements. There is no perfect scholarship winner and there are no fixed rules or standers to win a scholarship. Each applicant is special in their own way so work on standing out by being your authentic self.