Aweng Peter Majok Garang is from South Sudan and studied the MSc in Economics & Econometrics at Kent and was awarded a Chevening Scholarship to support his studies. We asked him about his time at Kent and what being awarded a Chevening Scholarship meant for him and his studies.
What attracted you to the University of Kent?
I was looking for a programme which placed empirical rigor at the heart of economic research in developing countries. The graduate program in Econometrics at the University of Kent stood out as the one of the few in the UK meeting this expectation. Exceptional about the Kennedy School of Economics was the presence of a vibrant and dynamic faculty with concrete and progressive research footprints in their areas of expertise.
What did receiving a Chevening Scholarship mean for you and your studies?
Becoming a Chevening scholar meant taking up the rare privilege of acquiring advanced knowledge in my field of expertise and building the confidence to lead at the highest levels in my profession and society. It also meant getting the opportunity to interact and establish life-long relationships with the most talented cohorts of aspiring young leaders and professionals from all persuasions of life.
Did the course live up to your expectations?
As Chevener at Kent, I benefited from the intellectual diversity of the faculty members and received all the necessary support to successfully accomplish my studies to my expectations. The reading and reference materials provided in lectures and seminars, econometric modelling software programs, and the general academic infrastructure given to graduate students were quite astonishing.
What do you think of the campus?
My time in Kent was a lot more enjoyable thanks to the loveable beautiful green Canterbury campus. More fulfilling about campus life was being able to study for as long as I wanted, accessing centralized services such as shops, cafes, and buses with ease. The cleanliness around the campus was stunning. I will specifically miss studying in the Senate building overlooking the historical Canterbury Cathedral through the glass windows.
How much interaction did you have will your fellow students and other Chevening scholars?
I have made respectable relationships with fellow students and decently shared experiences with the vibrant community of Cheveners in Kent. Through the Chevening network at Kent, we were able to plan network sessions. Also, particularly notable was my interaction with Fulbright students from USA; some of whom I have established strong personal relationships.
What did you think of the teaching?
Teaching at Kent is at the highest of excellence because the professors not only guide the intellectual thought-process of students, but they also provide individualized support to help them realize their full potential. The graduate programs at Kennedy school are highly demanding and the professors provide all the materials to make them a lot manageable.
What are your future plans?
I’m keen on pursuing career and research opportunities in applying econometric models to the analysis of various issues in developing countries. I’m particularly focused on finding exciting roles in multilateral organizations and academia to create networks and contribute the development of my country.
What advice would you give to someone considering studying at Kent?
Studying at Kent is extremely satisfying in terms of student experience and career prospects. The employability unit at the University is super helpful even after graduation. I will always be a proud Chevener from Kent, and would strongly recommend any person to join our world. Once Kentish, Always Kentish!
Find out more about our postgraduate programmes at Kent and our Chevening Scholarships.