Why did you apply for Chevening? Could you tell us a bit more about the programme from your perspective?

I didn't necessarily plan ahead to apply, and actually had never applied for any scholarships before. The idea came from a former student I tutored during my undergraduate studies, who later became a colleague. She had received the Chevening Scholarship the year before and encouraged me to look into it. I hadn’t heard of Chevening before that conversation. She explained that the programme is designed for mid‑career professionals who aspire to take on leadership roles.

At first, I had my doubts. It had been ten years since I left university, and I felt quite out of touch with academic study. So taking inspiration, I decided, OK why not? Let's give it a shot.

It coincided at a great time for my career trajectory. I had been working as a civil engineer within an NGO, and later moved into the UN. The managers there thought I'd be better suited for coordination roles, rather than purely technical engineering roles, and for the past four years I'd been working in coordination.

However, I didn't have a strong humanitarian or diplomatic background. I realised that if I am planning to pursue a career in coordination at an international level, I needed to strengthen my profile.

Chevening appealed to me because it aligned with where I wanted my career to go. Being a scholar would help me develop a huge network of connections, which is so important in a diplomatic or humanitarian role. So for that reason, I wasn't just looking at the degree, I was looking at the whole picture for my future career, and that's how I decided to apply for Chevening.

The application structure gives applicants a lot of freedom in choosing their course from the affiliated universities. When exploring my options, I did research into what the University of Bath does in humanitarian research, and I came across two professors at the university. I later found out that they did extensive research on Bangladesh. That solidified my position to choose the University of Bath.

The application process for Chevening is very organised. You select three subjects and clarify why you chose them, and why each one is relevant to your background and future plans. This step helped me to explain why I wanted to pursue another Master's, on top of the one I already had. I knew I was technically sound in other areas but for my desired career direction, I knew I needed additional help, knowledge, and expertise to explore my professional leadership skills.

I also liked that Chevening doesn’t require applicants to have an IELTS certificate at the point of applying, which reduces a lot of early paperwork. And in my case, the University of Bath responded very quickly - I received an offer within eight days, which made the whole process feel even more encouraging.

How did you feel when you found out you’d been awarded the sponsorship?

Receiving the Chevening Scholarship felt like a lifeline. I really wanted a fresh perspective on the humanitarian sector, but balancing that kind of reflection with full‑time work was almost impossible. Being awarded the scholarship gave me the chance to step back, study, and think more critically about the work we do. Now that I’m in the programme, I’m enjoying the conversations, debates, and insights that come from engaging closely with lecturers and coursemates.

In what ways has the sponsorship supported you so far?

The scholarship has helped me in so many ways. My tuition fees are covered jointly by Chevening and the university, and I receive a stipend of approximately £1500 per month for my living costs.

As a scholar, we also have access to other opportunities like training opportunities, volunteering, and access to networking events throughout the year.

Every month, we receive a newsletter sharing the different events scheduled across UK. These events are free for scholars and provide great chances to learn and connect with people. For example, I attended a conference in Wales that included exhibitions on Welsh history, culture, and language, which gave me a better understanding of the local area.

Also, before arriving, I attended the induction at UK embassy in Dhaka. We were joined by previous Chevening scholars from Bangladesh, as well as the UK high commissioner. We were welcomed, and given plenty of advice about living in the UK.

That was a helpful experience, because the move has felt slightly overwhelming at times. My wife also works in the humanitarian sector and is currently in Mozambique, and our daughter is five years old. Leaving her with my parents and coming to study in the UK has been a very hard decision to make, so hearing from other scholars reassured me that it was the right decision.

A memorable piece of advice I was given was simply to 'take vitamin D'! I met an alumna who spoke to me about cricket, and gave me some recommendations about where to watch cricket - thanks to her, I'm now going to a game in Cardiff. That induction event really helped me, and showed that there was a lot of support available.

Similarly, when I arrived in the UK, Bath organised an event with all the scholars at the University. It was a great place to meet other scholars, and so I've now formed a close group of scholar friends.

What inspired you to study MSc International Development with Conflict and Humanitarian Action at Bath?

I wanted to become a pilot in the Airforce, but an injury meant I had to leave that dream behind. And so I followed the traditional expectation in Bangladesh that “bright boys become engineers.” I struggled throughout my undergraduate degree as it wasn't my true passion.

I did well enough to pass my degree, I got the job, and I tried to find my path, but I felt unfulfilled. It all changed when I began working at the NGO and I finally found my passion. My work had a direct, visible impact. Fixing a town's sanitation system brought me great joy because you can see the benefit to communities and it means something. I later completed a part-time Master's in Environmental Management and I was reminded that I am a strong student and enjoy learning!

When I moved into coordination at the UN, I realised I needed an academic foundation to support my work and I wanted to make myself and my family proud and prove that I can achieve something academically that matters.

Studying on my MSc has been the right step to rebuild my confidence and take pride in my achievements.

How has your experience at Bath been so far? Any highlights, favourite moments, or unexpected discoveries?

I had no idea about Bath as a city when I was applying, as I was focused on what course I should apply for. I have been pleasantly surprised by how calm and safe it is, and it's beauty. It reminds me a little of Florence!

The cost of living is high, but the overall experience has been great.

Before coming to UK, I was warned about possible racial tension, but I haven't faced any problems. I've really appreciated seeing people protest peacefully and exercise their right to demonstrate. It's been eye-opening.

Academically, I really enjoy the teaching style in the UK. Discussions are open and honest, even when topics like colonial history or current global conflicts come up. Hearing lecturers speak critically and objectively about global issues is refreshing. The academic culture encourages reflection, and us students are genuinely included.

How is studying at Bath through the programme helping you work towards your career ambitions?

My initial plan is to return to Bangladesh and carry on working in the humanitarian section, ideally at the UN. My larger plan is to establish a Think Tank. This desire goes back to my experience with the debating society during my undergraduate degree, where I used to organise round table discussions. I find that in Bangladesh, there aren't any platforms rural communities, students, and non-elites to discuss political or social issues. I want to create a space where discussion can lead to actual policy change.

Contributing to advocacy for governments is ultimate goal. For example, Bangladesh's refugee response situation has been treated as a short-term crisis for years, but it's clearly a long-term issue. I want to advocate for a dedicated policy on refugee response using discussions and research.

Studying on this MSc is essential for that work. I have the engineering experience, but now through studying international development, I'm learning about social policy and politics. This opens up the window of opportunity for me with employers.

Do you have any advice for future applicants?

My main piece of advice is to think about your motivations for further study. What made my application easy is that although my application was quite spontaneous, I had no problem proving my motivations.

I also recommend applying to universities as early as you can. Having the offer letter ready before the Chevening deadline is very reassuring and saves you from more stress later in the process.

Also, take time to think about what sort of city you'd like to live in. Research the location of the university, as outside of your study, it's where you'll be living for a year.

Get totally involved in international culture! It is an adventure, so try and get out of your comfort zone and try new things.