Eva reflects on her year studying MSc Data Analytics at Queen Mary and discusses the impact she hopes to have back home.
Hello, my name is Eva Salgado and I am from Honduras, a small country in Central America. I am currently pursuing a masters degree in Data Analytics in the School of Mathematical Sciences at Queen Mary University of London. And I’m proud to say I am a Chevening Scholar.
Chevening is the UK government’s International Scholarship Programme, offering grants to study in the UK for one year on a fully funded masters degree. The programme is funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) and partner organisations.
It is one of the most competitive scholarship programmes for international students, not only because of the UK’s worldwide higher education prestige, but also because it covers all tuition fees, living costs, student visa, and travel costs to and from the student’s country of residence.
Being a Chevening Scholar has been one of the most challenging, rewarding, and fulfilling experiences in my life. Thanks to this scholarship, I gained cutting-edge Data Analytics knowledge from one of the most prestigious higher education institutions in London. I was also able to expand my professional network as I gained access to exclusive networking events, workshops, talks and volunteering opportunities, organised by both Chevening and Queen Mary.
It has also enabled me to experience the UK on a whole different level. All of its history, spectacular landscapes, architecture, the way of living. And of course, the numerous friendships I have made with people from all over the world. I am really taking so much with me when I return home.
The main goal of Chevening is to promote economic development and better business environments worldwide, and this is precisely the impact I want to have when I go back to Honduras. Having spent my entire life in a country that suffers greatly from poverty, I feel that there are no better institutions where I can apply my learnings than in those that promote development projects to combat social and economic problems, so my plan is to work as a Data Analyst in an NGO.
I was really surprised to learn how little data analysis is used in the nonprofit sector. For example, a 2019 study in the US reported that 90% of NGOs collect data but only 5% of them analyse it and use it for decision making. This represents an enormous potential for these organisations to have a greater impact through data analysis. By ensuring they use their resources in the best way possible, they can really maximise their social impact. My data Analytics masters degree from Queen Mary has provided me with all the analytical and quantitative skills that are needed to make informed, data-driven business decisions.
I knew that I wanted to study in London as it’s always been my dream. While doing my research, I was drawn to Queen Mary as it’s one of the best universities in the UK for Mathematical Sciences. It’s also popular amongst international students for its teaching, learning experience and the excellent graduate employability.
When it comes to the course, I liked that the Data Analytics programme included an extended research project. I knew it would allow me to develop strong applied data research skills that I would need in the future. Being almost at the end of my journey, I have come to validate that Queen Mary was my best decision.
I’d say, put your very best effort into making a great application. I encourage you to explore the Chevening website and the many online resources that are available that will help you to prepare for your application.
Being a Chevening Scholar is a truly unique experience. The relationships you will build will create opportunities for future projects and it’s a true gift to experience the UK’s culture. But most importantly, upon returning home, you’ll be able to give back with everything you’ve learned and help make your country a better place. This is truly rewarding!