From Brazil to studying Engineering Management in the UK

Being awarded the British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM represents everything I have seen the strong women in my family fight for.

As a single mother, my mother raised my sister and me to have the best education and did not measure efforts, even if this meant working more than 14 hours per day. My grandmother worked in the 1970s in the automotive field, a male-dominated segment. They always incentivised me to follow my dreams but unfortunately, being a woman in the STEM field in Brazil is still challenging.

I am a Production Engineer currently working in the IT area, which men completely dominate. My family's challenges inspired me to try to change the scenario in Brazil and what I have faced at work and university. Through this scholarship, I wish to inspire other women through my work and education to make this scenario more equal.

I chose to study Engineering Management because by studying this course, I could improve my engineering skills and develop my leadership and management skills, living the fantastic experience in the UK, and applying this in Brazil. Besides, the course allows us to have deep and practical discussions with people from around the world, which is impressive for improving critical thinking and applying this to the Brazilian context. I have friends from Lebanon, Mexico, Sri Lanka, England, Zimbabwe, and Colombia, and I learn with them daily.

Until now, the experience of being at ARU has been unique. I have been using study skills and all supporting materials from the library and Canvas. Lecturers and librarians are incredibly supportive and always have an open vacancy to talk to me when needed.

As a Brazilian, the weather is challenging, but people from Residential services are always helping me with all I need for my accommodation. In addition, the city of Chelmsford has everything I need at a very accessible cost. As I live in the student village, I can attend classes in less than 5 minutes and am a 15-minute walk from the city centre.

I could not believe it when I found out I got the scholarship. I started to cry with my mother. Arjun was with me in all moments, and even when I needed to repeat my English test, I could feel the positive energies he sent to incentivise me. The ARU team is differentiated and close to students. I have never had something like that in my life. I am very grateful to have chosen to study here!

Amanda

British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM

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The British Council is the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities. It builds connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and other countries through arts and culture, education and the English language. Last year it reached over 80 million people directly and 791 million people overall including online, and through broadcasts and publications. Founded in 1934, it is a UK charity governed by Royal Charter and a UK public body. It receives a 15 per cent core funding grant from the UK Government.