Hello, I am one of the fortunate women to have received this incredible scholarship. I wanted to take a moment to share a little bit about myself and how this generous gift has had a profound impact on my journey.

I am currently in the third module of my distance-learning online Masters in Bioinformatics at the University of Birmingham. As a biomedical scientist and an African Indian mother, I have always felt that I have more to contribute to the world. My interest in computing, paired with my passion for biology, led me to pursue this incredible course, which is truly a kaleidoscope of knowledge. It explores the biology of the world and how technology can and will help improve life on our planet. From understanding diseases to solving global hunger, bioinformatics offers vast applications in diverse fields.

Receiving this scholarship has truly been transformative. I deeply appreciate the support it has provided, allowing me to maintain a much-needed balance between work, life, and study—something that would have been far more difficult without it. As a woman, a mother, and a person of colour, I often find myself in spaces where I feel a sense of “otherness.” I am frequently the only person of colour in the room. While I’ve always been treated with respect, there’s an undeniable awareness of being different.

The scholarship has provided critical financial support. I’ve used part of the £10,000 to cover my fees and purchase essential supplies for the course. Having this as a cash payment, rather than a tuition fee discount, has made a significant difference—it’s offered me financial flexibility and security, which has enhanced my overall experience as a student.

My experience has been incredible so far, and I’ve particularly enjoyed the Scientific Communication module. In today’s digital age, effectively communicating science can be a challenge, but this module has taught me how to present complex scientific concepts in an accessible way. This skill is essential for connecting with wider audiences, and I’m thrilled to have developed it.

There have, of course, been challenges along the way—balancing life, work, and study is never easy—but my determination to grow both professionally and personally has kept me motivated.

This course delves into many areas of biology, with particular emphasis on genetics and its intersection with computing. The teaching at the University of Birmingham has been fantastic—the learning materials are provided in engaging and accessible ways, and the module leaders and tutors always ensure you feel supported. Because it’s an online course, I’ve been able to enjoy the flexibility of completing tasks at my own pace, which has been invaluable for maintaining a healthy work-life-study balance.

I chose this course because it bridges the gap between my fascination with computing and my love for biology. As a scientist, it’s crucial to stay in tune with the rapid advancements in technology, and this course has provided me with the tools to do so.

My future plans include completing this Masters program and stepping into an industry that is not only rapidly growing but also requires diverse perspectives. I aim to contribute to building systems for the future—systems that are inclusive and cater to the unique needs of individuals from all walks of life. With the knowledge and skills, I am gaining, I hope to make meaningful contributions to fields ranging from disease research to sustainable solutions for global challenges.