How to maximise your Chevening experience
Alumna Davephine Tholley shares her top tips for this year's Chevening Scholars on making the most of their year in the UK.
Thinking of applying for a Chevening Scholarship? Here’s why you should study in the UK!
With so many world-class universities to choose from, the UK is a popular choice for many international students.
Whether you want to accelerate your career in astrophysics, animation, or anything in between, you’ll find the course and learning environment you need to make it happen.
And with the help of a Chevening Scholarship, you’ll not only benefit from fully funded tuition; you’ll also become part of a community of like-minded scholars who will help you make the most of this exciting year abroad.
Picture debating ideas at a networking event one day and exploring the UK together the next!
Still not convinced? We’ve compiled some of the top reasons you should consider studying in the UK.
1. The arts and entertainment scene
The UK has internationally acclaimed creative industries that have consistently generated global talents. Whether you’re into music, film, theatre, or fashion, you’re sure to get your fix amongst the many music festivals, film premieres, major theatre shows, exhibitions, and museums in this arts and culture haven.
For 2022-23 Chevening Scholar Dipna Gunnoo, being able to visit the Royal Opera House was one of the highlights of her Chevening year.
And for Social Media Ambassador An Nguyen, getting to attend the Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool was one of many UK experiences he’ll never forget.
2. The diversity
The UK is one of the most diverse countries in the world, and has a long history of welcoming visitors, especially students, from around the globe. Living in the UK exposes you to a variety of cultures, opinions, and experiences. You’ll leave with friends from places that you didn’t even know existed!
For Dang Thanh Van, who pursued her master’s in wildlife and conservation management at the University of South Wales, the way in which locals welcomed her to the area and made her feel part of the community was one of the things that stood out to her.
3. The great outdoors
Despite depictions of gloomy weather, the UK is actually abundant in natural beauty.
From the Scottish Highlands to the Lake District, Snowdonia, and Isle of Wight, nature lovers will truly be in their element. The UK’s excellent transport network also makes it easy to get away for the weekend to rest and reconnect with nature.
And this is exactly what many of our Chevening Scholars do!
When they’re not busy studying, we encourage them to make the most of their time in the UK and explore as much of it as they can.
If you’re looking for inspiration, you can read Social Media Ambassador Keta Goletiani’s blog on her favourite UK weekend trips.
4. The rich history and heritage
Packed with historic monuments, stately homes, castles, and cathedrals, there are countless well-preserved sites of historical interest in the UK. You might visit the house in which Shakespeare was born, discover one of Europe’s most recognisable prehistoric monuments, or overlook the Scottish capital from Edinburgh Castle.
Pictured is Social Media Ambassador Jesús Ramírez Grajales outside Shakespeare’s House in Stratford Upon Avon.
Along with a group of Cheveners, Jesús enjoyed a walking tour of the historic sights, followed, of course, by a spot of quintessentially English cream tea!
5. The sport
The UK is home to Premier League football, and it annually hosts the London Marathon, F1 Grand Prix, Wimbledon, and many other events. But the UK is more than just a good place to watch elite sport. For those who like participating in sport, access to facilities is affordable for students and, in many places, free.
Social Media Ambassador Sibongiseni Zondi had some great tips for fellow scholars on how to maintain a healthy body and mind through exercise and sport. Like many other Cheveners, Sibongiseni also took the opportunity to visit some world-famous football stadiums during his time in the UK, including the iconic Old Trafford in Manchester.
Whatever you’re interested in, there’s something for everyone in the UK!
So what are you waiting for? Apply today!
Alumna Davephine Tholley shares her top tips for this year's Chevening Scholars on making the most of their year in the UK.
Methaporn Singhanan is a Chevening Fellow at the British Library for the academic year 2022-23. A PhD candidate at Chiang Mai University in her home country Thailand, she is currently researching Manuscript Textiles in the Library’s Southeast Asian collections.
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