Navigating Scholarship Opportunities: A Scholar’s Journey to Actuarial Excellence
Embark on a journey with Yakshini Bhurosah as she shares her experience navigating scholarship opportunities for professional growth.
Securing financial assistance for higher education can be a pivotal moment for many students, especially those facing economic constraints. Yakshini Bhurosah benefited from the full fee Boyle-Rodney Scholarship at Bayes, which enabled her to pursue her MSc Actuarial Management. She shares her journey from the application process to the transformative impact on her career prospects, offering valuable insights and advice for fellow students seeking similar opportunities.
How was the application process for the Boyle-Rodney scholarship?
The application process was clear. I had to answer a few questions and go through an online interview. The questions were clear and any queries that I had regarding the application were answered very quickly. The interview process was informative, engaging and well – structured. The panel also answered any queries that I had.
Why did you apply for a scholarship? What were your reasons?
My father was the primary breadwinner in our family when I was growing up. We encountered financial challenges when my father retired. My parents are not able to contribute to my master’s degree because the salary of my mother, the pension of my father, and their savings are used to meet the basic needs of my family and finance the education of my sister. Moreover, I used a significant proportion of my savings and salary on the exam fees and membership fees of the IFOA and the purchase of study materials. Without the scholarship, I will never be able to afford the cost associated with the master’s degree.
What difference did the scholarship make to your Master’s study?
Firstly, this master’s degree will provide me with exemptions for six actuarial papers. There are only two universities in the world other than Bayes Business School that offer a degree with the exemptions that I require to become an actuary, and none of them provide sufficient funding for my needs. Secondly, although I have researched other scholarships, I am not eligible to apply for any of them. Therefore, this scholarship allowed me to fulfil my dream of pursuing a master’s degree in London and becoming an actuary.
What difference has the Master’s made to your career trajectory?
To qualify as an actuary, I need to complete thirteen actuarial examinations. I had completed only five when I was applying for the scholarship, and I still needed to write eight more papers. This master’s degree will provide me with exemptions for five papers in one year, thus enabling me to quickly fulfil my dream of becoming an actuary. Moreover, the course offers elective modules in data science and machine learning, and as per the IFOA, knowledge on the topic will significantly increase the market value of actuaries. In addition, this course will help me make a positive impact on society. For example, using the skills and knowledge about models, insurance, and finance acquired from the course, I will be able to develop new microinsurance products to better serve the poor.
Are there any tips you would give other students applying for a scholarship?
When you are applying for the scholarship, do not let negative thoughts prevent you from doing so. You should try your luck and apply. It may lead to amazing opportunities and open several doors for you. Believe in yourself and do your best in the application and interview process. Receiving this scholarship has changed my life for the better and it may do the same for you as well.