My MSc journey as a British Council WISTEM scholar in the UK

MSc Engineering Management graduate Natalí discusses her experiences of studying in the UK as part of the British Council Women in STEM scholarship programme.

Receiving the British Council Women in STEM Scholarship to pursue my MSc in Engineering Management in the UK has been truly transformative. As an aspiring leader in the tech industry, this journey offered me a world-class education, exposure to diverse perspectives, invaluable industry connections, and unforgettable moments that will stay with me forever.

In this blog, I’d like to share my journey, the lessons I learned, and the rewarding challenges I embraced along the way.

Learning experience

Favourite subjects: connecting passion with professional experience

Certain modules stood out as favourites because they resonated deeply with both my personal interests and professional background. They bridged theory and practice, enhancing my technical knowledge and offering a fresh perspective on my field.

Two subjects made a significant impact on me. Management Theory encouraged me to develop my own management style by building a solid foundation of management theories while integrating my values, experiences, and career goals. The combination of theory and practical application provided a lifelong foundation for growth, empowering me to lead authentically in diverse professional settings.

Project Management Systems provided a comprehensive understanding of the project manager’s role throughout the lifecycle of a project. It sharpened my planning, coordination, and control skills, perfectly complementing my prior experience and significantly enhancing my project management toolkit.

Gaining new knowledge

Some modules presented entirely new and challenging concepts, which required determination and collaboration to master. Despite their difficulty, they pushed me to think critically and embrace fresh perspectives.

Economic, Legal and Political Framework introduced me to the complex interconnections between firms in the built environment and their external influences, covering economic, political, and legal factors. Through analysing current events, conducting research, and debating theories, I honed my adaptability and critical thinking skills.

Sustainability and Environmental Management explored the increasing importance of sustainability in the built environment. It challenged me to consider the long-term environmental impact of engineering projects, igniting my passion for sustainable practices in future endeavours.

Challenges and how I overcame them

Adapting to a new culture, sharing experiences with people from all over the world, returning to academic life, maintaining a demanding study schedule, and balancing the intensity of the programme were some of the biggest challenges I faced during my MSc journey. However, I quickly realised the importance of balancing academics with personal well-being and social interactions.

To manage stress and maintain balance, I actively participated in ARU’s social activities designed to help students de-stress from academic pressures. These included well-being initiatives, events organised by the Student Union, and spending time in social spaces like the campus coffee shop. These activities allowed me to connect with new people, build friendships, and feel part of a supportive community.

With time, I adapted to the UK weather – a challenge in itself! I embraced wearing layers to stay warm during the colder months and found comfort in a hot cup of tea, which became my go-to remedy for the chill, along with enjoying a pint of cider in a cosy pub on a Friday night. I also learnt to appreciate the unique charm of each season, making the most of what they had to offer and discovering beauty in every weather change.

Combining these efforts allowed me to manage my own rhythm throughout the programme while fully embracing the experience, making it a truly transformative and fulfilling chapter of my life.

Beyond academics: embracing British culture

Living in the UK allowed me to experience its rich culture and vibrant history. I loved exploring London’s world-renowned museums, such as the British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum, which offered fascinating journeys through art and history.

I also enjoyed exploring some of London's iconic parks, including St. James's Park, Hyde Park, Richmond Park, Greenwich Park, and Primrose Hill. These green spaces became havens of tranquillity, where I could relax, reflect, and marvel at the beauty of British landscapes.

Moreover, I attended concerts, visited charming pub and lovely coffee shops, and travelled to enchanting cities like Bath, Oxford, Warwick, Birmingham, and Liverpool, each with its own unique charm. Additionally, I participated in fairs, STEM programmes, and events that broadened my perspective and connected me with professionals and peers in my field.

These experiences made my stay unforgettable, deepening my appreciation for British culture while contributing significantly to my personal and professional growth.

My dissertation journey

Writing my dissertation was one of the most rewarding aspects of my MSc. For me, the key to my success was identifying a topic I was truly passionate about: Digital Transformation, Leadership, and Management. By combining this passion with the knowledge, I gained during my studies and my professional career, I crafted a meaningful research project that contributes to the banking industry in my home country.

The Research and Design Methods module proved invaluable in helping me define a well-structured proposal, ensuring timely approval and a strong start. I also benefited greatly from the expertise of my professors and tutor, regularly consulting them to refine my ideas, address challenges, and stay on track.

The process involved meticulous planning, thorough data collection, and countless hours of analysis. I successfully submitted my dissertation on time, and I was thrilled to receive a Distinction for my work. Completing the dissertation was a significant milestone that brought immense pride and a sense of accomplishment, making every effort worthwhile.

Graduation day: a milestone achieved

As graduation day approached, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride in how far I had come. This degree is more than an academic achievement, it is a testament to my dedication to advancing in STEM.

The graduation ceremony in Chelmsford Cathedral was magical, a moment filled with pride and mixed emotions, shared with my family, classmates, and ARU staff. I am deeply grateful to the British Council and Anglia Ruskin University for their unwavering support and belief in my potential.

Reflecting on my time as a British Council WISTEM scholar, I feel empowered to make a meaningful impact in my field. This journey has prepared me to contribute to innovative projects, embrace new challenges, and inspire other women to pursue their dreams in STEM.

Natalí studied MSc Engineering Management at ARU in Chelmsford. You can find out more about this, and other postgraduate courses we offer, at an Open Evening.