The HSBC Scholarships Programme

Here's what past HSBC scholars have to say about their experience:

Rupal Kulkarni, 2008
The HSBC scholarship made it possible for me to pursue my academic interests without having to worry about a thing. The learning experience has been immense. I have learnt a lot from well known professors, fellow students from all over the world and simply by living in another country. Studying at the LSE has reinforced my interest in development studies and environmental issues This experience has given me a global perspective on issues that I am passionate about and has made me more confident about the career path that I am about to embark upon. My only message to students is that if you are really passionate about a subject, no matter what your background is, you will enjoy studying it and that you will love the career that you build from it.

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Madhuri Karak, 2007
I studied Sociology for my B.A. at Lady Shri Ram College for Women, New Delhi. In 2007, the HSBC Scholarship allowed me to pursue a Masters in Anthropology and Development at the London School of Economics and Political Science.

At one level, sociology for me was about deconstructing social turbulence. Age, class, gender, caste, religion, region, language and nationality are not textbook concepts but overlapping identities that comprise a persisting reality, lived and struggled against. It was to continue this interest in social change in a globalizing world that I chose to focus on the dilemmas - especially participation and environmental degradation - of development.

At the LSE, my dissertation focused on the increasing marginalization of local epistemologies in the processes of development. I looked at conflicting discourses of ecology in Guinea, Zambia and Bangladesh, and the impact of inequality on communal forest management practices. Besides intense academic exposure, I am also grateful to HSBC for my London experience. This vibrant, cosmopolitan city has left a lasting impression on me. Memories of theatre on the South Bank, scores of languages humming around the tube, red buses in the middle of rainy greyness and Earl Grey tea, continue to assail me in unguarded moments.

Currently I am a Research Associate at the Institute of Social Studies Trust in New Delhi, an organization committed to bridging gaps between policy, action and research with a special focus on women. I work on issues of social protection (and especially the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act), women's work and gender empowerment.

The HSBC Scholarship was special because of the unqualified support it provided me during my year long stay in the UK. There was no interference, only unstinting encouragement to pursue my interests and dreams. Thank you, HSBC.

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Jyoti Prasad Deka, 2007
I have recently completed an MSc in Environmental Technology- Energy Policy and am grateful to HSBC who supported my education and has helped in enriching my career.

After my first degree in mechanical engineering, I wanted to pursue an interest in energy systems and aspired to join Imperial College London for post-graduation, a dream which I would not have realised but for the HSBC scholarship. The course introduced a gamut of topics in energy economics and climate change policy issues and facilitated hand on experience on low carbon technologies and sustainable development. It was also instrumental in developing a strong interdisciplinary academic profile that helped me secure an energy consulting position within a leading global firm. I hope to build on my professional experience and pursue a doctorate in the coming years.

I would also like to take this opportunity to recommend the MSc programme to anyone who is interested in building a career in the field of sustainable energy systems. The coursework provides a unique blend of technology, economic and relevant global policies and guide one towards the rationale behind climate change and clean energy debate. Further, it brings on exciting networking and diverse career opportunities in sectors like consulting, research, policy making and even public management.

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Roheet B Rao, 2006
"Two roads diverged in a wood,
and I - I took the one less travelled by,
And that has made all the difference."

It was the words of Robert Frost that were ringing in my ears when I accepted the HSBC award three years ago, and these words still hold true for me even today. Following the successful completion of my M.B.B.S from the prestigious St John's Medical College, Bangalore, I chose to pursue a Master of Science in Immunology at the University of Oxford, a path few doctors consider. It was the HSBC scholarship programme that recognised my potential and afforded me the opportunity to make a bold choice, and I am forever grateful for the chance.

Thereon I have gone from strength to strength, obtaining a Distinction in my Master's degree, and subsequently being awarded the Cancer Research UK Scholarship to read for a PhD at the University of Cambridge, UK.

HSBC scholarships have attracted the best young minds and competition remains stiff, making this a very coveted scholarship that is increasing in recognition with every new batch of Scholars. Moreover, the rigorous interview procedure, daunting as it may seem, is ideal for assessing all facets of the shortlisted candidates. It is comprehensive, and in my experience, quite enjoyable. I do hope that this programme continues to thrive, and provide the opportunity to worthy individuals to give them a chance to realise their potential.

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Farrah Ahmed, 2006
I was a student at the Delhi University Law Faculty when I applied for the HSBC Scholarship. The HSBC Education Trust now supports my postgraduate education in law at the University of Oxford. My course here continues to be intellectually challenging and personally fulfilling. The generosity and support of this scholarship has made it possible for me to take the first steps towards a career in legal research. I would strongly recommend applying to the HSBC Scholarship Programme if you are eligible.