The strugge of balancing one’s career life with motherhood is a worldwide challenge. But studying in a new country with 3 kids to take care of is another level of juggling. This all didn’t stop Baydaa form persuing her dream to get a masters degree in the UK and all of this was possible, through the chevening scholarship.
This episode is part of a chevening series where we interview alumni from various backgrounds to enrich your chevening application process.
We cover in this episode:
- Baydaa’s application process for the Chevening Scholarship
- Overcoming cultural and familial challenges
- Adjusting to life in the UK as an Iraqi family
- Balancing studies, family, and personal growth
- Insights on leadership and networking
Time stamps:
00:00 – Introduction to the Episode
00:28 – Meet Baydaa: Chevening Scholar & Mother of Triplets
01:12 – Why She Chose the UK for Her Master’s Degree
03:07 – Baydaa’s Journey: Dreaming of a Master’s While Raising Kids
06:32 – Applying Twice: Lessons from a Failed Chevening Application
07:59 – Tackling the Scholarship Essays: Leadership & Networking
11:07 – Bringing the Kids to the UK: Challenges and Surprises
13:17 – Culture Shock and Reintegrating into Iraqi Society
14:45 – Adapting to UK Schools: A New Experience for the Children
18:32 – How the UK Changed Her Children’s Outlook
21:33 – Being a Mother and Leader: Juggling Studies and Family
26:15 – What She Learned in the UK Education System
30:31 – The Power of Networking and Volunteering in the UK
33:00 – Lessons on Leadership and Inspiring Her Children
35:28 – Encouraging Future Chevening Applicants: Baydaa’s Final Message
37:05 – Conclusion and Thank You for Watching!