Pursuing my doctoral dream with a scholarship

24 June 2025

by Chyanna Wee
School of Information Technology

1. Tell us about the scholarship.

The Graduate Research Tuition Fee Waiver Scholarship is an esteemed offering from Monash University Malaysia that provides either a 50 per cent, 75 per cent or 100 per cent fee waiver for eligible master's and doctoral candidates.

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

As an aspiring researcher and educator, my goal is to pursue a doctoral degree in information technology with a focus on perceptual interfaces (Eg: Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality and Haptics). I aim to adopt these technologies in education to enhance teaching and learning experiences. With this fee waiver, I am one step closer to pursuing my goals.

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

Pursuing a doctoral degree comes with significant financial challenges. This scholarship allows me to focus on my goals without worrying about financial matters. I’m genuinely grateful for the chance to reach my full potential and give my research the attention it deserves.

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

The scholarship has played a pivotal role in shaping my university experience in several ways. First, it has introduced me to a community of like-minded people who have provided undying support and guidance throughout my studies. The scholarship also empowered me to step out of my comfort zone and gave me a safe place to explore unconventional ideas. Keeping in mind that my work is being acknowledged by esteemed institutions like Monash has pushed me to continue to excel and stay confident regardless of any obstacles that may come my way.

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

Being of an age where it is imperative to juggle life aspects such as family, career, health, personal growth, and relationships, completing a doctoral degree can often cause strains in some or all of the mentioned aspects. Needless to say, overcoming these challenges has become a pivotal milestone in my growth journey. However, I am comforted by the fact that every challenge is a catalyst to shape me into a more resilient and determined individual.

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

In my opinion, being true to yourself and having a story to tell is helpful. Make sure to invest time and effort into crafting narratives that are compelling to showcase your experiences, achievements, and aspirations. Other than that, try to find opportunities that align closely with your goals, values, and interests so that your story can truly shine. Lastly, always remember that the scholarship application process can be challenging and competitive. When faced with rejection, fully acknowledge how you feel, move on and take it as a learning opportunity for growth and improvement.