While there are many common tips for making a successful application, it is also important to think of ways to make your application stand out to the Chevening selection committee. Incoming scholar Aimee Kit Ee Lee, who will soon begin her MSc in Public Health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, shares what made her application different from the rest, as well as her tips for current applicants.
What do you think made your application stand out to the Chevening selection committee?
In hindsight, I believe what made me stand out was my application essays. I took two weeks to write the four essays on leadership, networking, studying in the UK, and career plan. As every applicant would have outstanding academic accolades and achievements, it was crucial for me to make my personality stand out in the essays and make my application memorable.
I remember using my enthusiasm in competitive cheerleading as an ice-breaker for my first essay. The idea seemed too trivial at first, but it was a good introduction for me to talk about leadership and influence. It was a big gamble, but I’m glad I made an impression to be shortlisted for the interview.
What application and/or interview tips would you give to prospective applicants?
My advice to any prospective applicants would be to be prepared. Read up on Chevening, their vision and aims, and gauge what kind of applicant they are looking for. Try to convey your personality and career goals in your application essays and interview, and incorporate that with why you could be a good fit for Chevening and vice versa.
If you do get through to the interview round, you have shown that your application carries some weight. Elaborate further on what you have written in your essays. Keep abreast of issues that impact the UK and your home country, especially in your chosen field—interviewers love asking about that! Be professional but not too rehearsed, and most importantly just be yourself and good luck!