This Malaysian scholar is excited to start her degree at the London School of Economics

Wan Hani Malek, from Malaysia, is excited to start her undergraduate degree in one of the most elite Russell Group institutions in the UK. “The London School of Economics (LSE) is a prestigious university that offers a world-class education that I look forward to,” she tells us.

The BSc in Accounting and Finance at LSE students is a scholar sponsored by Yayasan Sime Darby (YSD). She is packed and ready — yet, also cautious about the challenges the pandemic will pose on her taking a flight to the next chapter of her life. Below, we dive into more details with her:

How did you come across the YSD Scholarship Programme to get into the London School of Economics?

I have lived in Sungai Buloh all my life, and was born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. I come from a family of six, including myself. My brother is studying Dentistry, while one of my sisters studies in Edinburgh University. 

I first came across the YSD Scholarship through a friend of mine as he is also one of the YSD Scholars currently studying his A-levels. The college I went to — Kolej Yayasan UEM (KYEUM) — had also pushed me towards applying for this bursary too. 

Why did you choose the UK?

The UK has a long tradition of welcoming students from all over the world, and it also has a multicultural environment that is harder to find in other countries. Plus, the UK has so much to offer as it is rich in history. I would love to visit some of the historical places including the Edinburgh Castle, Stonehenge, and the Roman Baths. 

What attracted you to study at the London School of Economics? 

The main reason I chose the London School of Economics is because they have a diverse array of students from various different backgrounds. This is interesting to me because I feel that I will be able to familiarise myself with different cultures. 

Also, being able to understand different perspectives is also an added bonus, from a cultural point of view. Furthermore, LSE offers a variety of courses that include unique courses not typical to the field such as geography for BSc Accounting and Finance students. 

 The application process is similar to other universities. Students may apply through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) and submit their personal statements online. Some courses may need you to attend an interview as part of your application. 

What is the first thing you plan to do when you arrive?

The first thing I plan to do is get to know my roommate, because I’ll be sharing a room with her, and it’s always best to get along! Other than that, I really can’t wait to walk around London and get used to its busy streets and the cold weather! One thing I enjoy is walking in nature and watching movies, and I know London is not amiss of that.

What are you bringing with you from home?

I will definitely be bringing a lot of Malaysian pre-packed food and food products as I know that I will greatly miss the food back home during my studies at the London School of Economics. I will also be bringing little gifts and trinkets I have received from my family and friends to help me when I get homesick.

What positive traits do you look forward to bringing to your university life?

I do not have a definite answer for this, as I have just barely started and there is still a long way to go. However, I do know that we all have the same great enthusiasm and perseverance to learn more and gain valuable experience both academically and in life.

Do you have any advice for students planning the same path as yours? 

My advice is that this is not an easy path, but it is also not impossible. Just do your best in your studies and enjoy your life at the same time. Don’t worry if you feel lost, get help and seek advice from your family, friends, and teachers. That way, you will feel less overwhelmed. Always research on whatever you want to do, and what you are interested in so that you can make the best life choices. Lastly, good luck!