Receiving the Dean’s Impact Scholarship

Why did you choose to study the Global Online MBA at Imperial College Business School?

The Global Online MBA offered everything I was seeking in an MBA – exposure to an internationally recognised institution, a diverse cohort of peers from around the world, and being educated by renowned lecturers. I understood it would also allow me to continue my career whilst supporting my wife in her medical studies back home. After reading the brochure, I knew I had to apply. This decision was further strengthened by the positive testimonies and feedback from my peers and mentors, who were Imperial graduates and could vouch for the institution’s excellence.

What does the Dean’s Impact Scholarship mean to you?

I received the Dean's Impact Scholarship for Technological and Innovation, and it truly meant the world to me. On a personal level, it validated the countless hours I dedicated to advancing my career – from late nights learning cloud engineering and object detection models, to the early mornings of studying for my The Certificate in Quantitative Finance (CQF) and refining my software development skills. While my drive was always fuelled by a deep passion for learning, having these efforts formally recognised was incredibly rewarding. Oh, it also meant I could afford to attend Imperial!

What makes the Dean’s Impact Scholarship particularly unique or special?

This is a wonderful scholarship as it truly prioritises the pursuit of excellence and innovation. We live in an incredibly dynamic world. One where rapid technological advancement coexists with significant challenges and inequities. It’s essential – perhaps even a moral imperative - to harness these innovations to drive meaningful change. A scholarship dedicated to this mission speaks volumes about the Business School’s values and priorities. It reflects a commitment to shaping leaders who can leverage technology to make a real impact. Since securing the Dean’s Impact Scholarship, I have received access to scholarship networking events, breakfasts, and opportunities to partake in promotional activities. It really has been wonderful, these opportunities will continue to open doors for me personally and professionally.

How did it feel when you found out you had secured your scholarship?

I was in disbelief – I checked the email about five times to see if they had made a mistake. It was an incredible feeling to know that my application was successful and that I would be part of the next cohort of the Global Online MBA.

What motivated you to apply for the Dean’s Impact Scholarship at Imperial College Business School?

I attended a few prospective student briefings and panels before applying to Imperial, which encouraged applying for scholarships, so it felt like a natural step when I began my application. I knew I would need financial assistance to attend, and the Dean’s Impact Scholarship resonated with me the most. It aligned perfectly with my career focus on leveraging emerging technologies, like drones, to drive change in South Africa and beyond.

How did you balance scholarship applications with your schoolwork and other commitments?

The scholarship application process was smooth and streamlined, so it wasn’t a significant burden to complete. It was mainly about organising my thoughts and structuring my submission, which made it manageable alongside my other commitments. I have to credit Imperial for understanding the pressures prospective applicants face and making a clear effort to simplify the application process.

What are the most important qualities or attributes that you think scholarship committees look for?

I believe the committees seek professionals who can contribute unique perspectives, motivations, and a fresh dynamic to the Business School and its cohorts. I think one of the primary considerations is a clear drive for success. One way that this can be observed is the effort put into the scholarship application itself, such as the care taken in crafting a video submission script.

If you could give one piece of advice to future scholarship applicants, what would it be?

Just apply. Gather your thoughts and prepare, but don’t overthink or doubt yourself. I had no idea what the outcome would be when I applied, or the suitability of my profile. But I knew I had to try if I wanted to make my dream of pursuing an international MBA a reality. I am so grateful I took that chance. I know it can happen to others as well.