Empowering Ambitions

18 October 2024

by Angela Maria Mathew
Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences

1. Tell us about this scholarship.

I am a recipient of the Graduate Research Excellence Scholarship (GRES), which is offered by Monash University Malaysia. The scholarship covered my international tuition fees and provided me with a stipend to meet my living expenses.

2. In what ways do you believe this scholarship aligns with your academic and career aspirations?

Since young, I have been fascinated by the beauty of science. My father, who is a reading and knowledge-sharing enthusiast, used to discuss history, current affairs, science, and many more. Such open discussions at home encouraged and nurtured my interest in scientific discoveries. For me, the main driving force behind selecting research as a career is my motivation to learn new facts and skills, as well as to find answers to my questions and ultimately contribute to the knowledge pool. Hence, I chose topics that were new to me to develop new skill sets. As of now, I am looking forward to building my career in academia, and with the right guidance, I will sharpen myself in the best possible way.

3. What motivated you to pursue this particular scholarship opportunity?

Quality education is every human being's right, and I acknowledge that I was privileged to access it throughout my life. Globally, it is a matter of concern that although education is undoubtedly the most prized possession one can own, it is one of the most expensive services and comes at a high price, which is often difficult to bear. Since starting my master's degree, I have been keen to pursue my PhD from a reputed international university with a fully funded scholarship to support myself. I have been passionate about learning new skills and wanted to be a part of interdisciplinary research. However, with financial aid such as this Scholarship, it is easier for international students to sustain themselves in a foreign country, especially due to the huge international tuition fees.

4. In what ways has the scholarship played a role in shaping your overall university experience?

It has given me the opportunity to be financially independent and free from financial liabilities. It helps me to ensure my safety and health. A luxury life cannot be guaranteed, but if you manage your expenses carefully, then you can sustain yourself.

5. Are there specific challenges or milestones that stand out as crucial to your growth?

Since I wanted to be a part of multidisciplinary research, my research project is more advanced and different from my background. It is challenging to restart from the basics. However, I believe that is how research works, and I am hoping to learn new techniques, which can sharpen me as a researcher and eventually strengthen my research career.

6. Drawing from your experience, what advice would you give to students considering applying for scholarships?

Since scholarship applications are unequivocally competitive, prospective students should focus more on improving their publications. If you have publications in Q1 journals, then you will have a better chance of cracking the scholarship. If not, try your best to publish your work in a trusted and impactful journal. Sometimes, the journey can seem difficult, especially if you move out of your comfort zone. However, if you are adamant about what you want to achieve, you will strive through all uncertainties. Trust your efforts and aspirations. You must have already achieved some of your previous goals. You will win this, too.