Scholarship fulfils a dream
by Vilasani Shritharan
School of Engineering
Tell us about this scholarship.
Monash Equity Scholarship is for qualifying individuals struggling financially to pursue their tertiary education at Monash University Malaysia. There are two packages to aid students, partially or wholly, depending on their financial backgrounds, which are thoroughly verified. Suitable candidates are then shortlisted and called for an interview to be assessed.
Why did you apply for this scholarship?
Before pursuing my tertiary education, I laboriously worked as a home tutor and part-time jobs to contribute financially to the family. Being passionate about pursuing higher education, I knew I had to search for external funding to fulfil my dream of becoming a chemical engineer. I researched scholarships available in different institutes and started applying after completing my pre-university course. When I came across the Monash Scholarship page, I knew I had to apply despite the odds. Unsure whether my application would be accepted, I hoped and prayed for the opportunity of studying at Monash and sent in my application.
How did you choose your planned program of study?
I chose chemical engineering after thorough research into the responsibilities of a chemical engineer, job outcomes and prospects. But the primary reason I chose chemical engineering is that I’ve always wanted to push my problem-solving and critical thinking to its limits. Chemical engineering is challenging, and it kept me on my toes throughout my education. It has improved my thought process to be more systematic and to approach problems logically.
What do you hope to gain (have you gained) from the Monash experience?
The Monash experience has allowed me to develop skills to pursue an engineering career. It has exposed me to cutting-edge technology, avenues to meet industry experts, first-hand exposure to research work with leading researchers in the field, built my confidence through extracurricular activities (such as rock climbing), and adapted myself to working under high pressure within a team and individually. My favourite part of the Monash experience is the amazing opportunity I’ve had to expand my global network. I’ve connected with lifelong friends from different corners of the world without having to step out of the comfort of our Malaysian culture.
How has the scholarship assisted you?
The scholarship has given me an opportunity to study in a ‘crème de la crème’ Chemical Engineering university in Malaysia. Additionally, the monthly stipend and accommodation allowed me to not worry about being a financial burden to my parents whilst still realising my dream to become a chemical engineer and make my family proud. Furthermore, the scholarship committee is some of the most welcoming and warm people I’ve had the opportunity to meet. I am eternally grateful to the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation for giving me and others with similar circumstances the chance to grow further.
You, too, can fulfil your dreams by applying for a scholarship. Click this link to know more: https://www.monash.edu.my/student-services/financial-assistance