My journey after Chevening at the University of Dundee

Chevening is the UK Government’s global scholarship programme. It offers future leaders the opportunity to study a one-year postgraduate degree in the UK. Chevening Scholarships are awarded to outstanding professionals from all over the world. 

With the support of a Chevening Scholarship, Lina Tjindra pursued an MSc in Leadership and Innovation at the University of Dundee. Having completed her degree in 2018, Lina reflects on her experience at the University and life since returning to Indonesia. 

Lina said, “I truly enjoyed my time studying at the University of Dundee. The University is a compact campus with lots of facilities to support students. Often, I would stay for hours in the library with its homely feel. It was open 24 hours a day during the exam period and provided a warm, welcoming space for all students.”

Dundee is a dynamic city known for its rich history in innovation, cultural heritage and vibrant creative scene. Speaking specifically about her time in Dundee, Lina said, “I loved the city of Dundee. It is a great place to live and study. The University is like a melting pot of cultures, where I could meet and befriend different people from across the world, enriching my experience.

“The environment is serene, with lots of lovely outdoor spaces in which to read, have a picnic, or simply get some fresh air and exercise. Most places are easy to reach on foot, and there is plenty of public transportation to get around on too. 

“I fondly remember being granted permission from Dundee City Council to conduct a charity collection, to help the victims of the Lombok Earthquake in Indonesia in August 2018. The people of Dundee are so friendly and welcoming to students from different backgrounds and countries.”

Lina's time at the University of Dundee empowered her to make a greater impact on her return to Indonesia. Lina graduated and continued to work as a Project Director at a cybersecurity company in Indonesia. Lina also volunteers as a member of the Advisory Board for ‘Sahabat Anak’ (which translates to ‘Children’s Best Friend’), a not-for-profit foundation which provides help and support to marginalized children in Jakarta and the surrounding area. 

Together with her colleagues, Lina also initiated ‘Ayo Nyoblos’ (which translates to ‘Let’s Vote’), a social event providing information about the Indonesian General Election in 2019. Lina said, “It successfully reached thousands of people, from young voters to the elderly, and provided them with full information about the election; how to use their right to vote and how to gather trusted information about the candidates and each political party. The event will run again this year.”

Reflecting on her achievements, Lina said, “It is clear my postgraduate study, importantly supported by the Chevening Scholarship, has equipped me with the ability to think systemically and view things from a broader perspective. My studies taught me to find the root cause of a problem, to recommend a feasible solution, and put these solutions into practice.”

Chevening Scholars live and study in the UK for a year, developing professionally and academically. They will then leave the UK equipped with the knowledge and networks necessary to bring their own ideas to life. 

The University of Dundee has an established relationship with Chevening. The University is one of three in the UK to offer Chevening Fellowships in China and welcomes Chevening Scholars across a variety of subjects. 

Chevening Scholarship applications are now open. The Chevening Scholarship is an external application, separate to your University of Dundee course application.