Scholar Success Story: Krupa, Winner of L’oréal Young Women in Science Scholarship
Buddy4Study: Share with us a brief background about your academic and professional journey (if any) until now.
Krupa: I was a merit scholarship holder during Classes 11 and 12. After completing my BSc (Hons.) Agriculture degree with the help of the L’Oréal Young Women in Science Scholarship, I worked for nearly two years. Following my CAT preparation, I received interview calls from 20 of the 22 IIMs and am currently pursuing my MBA at IIM Lucknow.
Buddy4Study: What motivated you to pursue BSc (Hons.) in Agriculture?
Krupa: I have always been passionate about science and its practical applications in solving agricultural challenges. I wanted to contribute meaningfully to agricultural advancements in India and pursue a field with considerable scope and relevance to our country’s development.
Buddy4Study: What were the key challenges faced by you during your undergraduate journey?
Krupa: The primary challenge was the financial constraint my family faced in funding my four-year degree. The costs of education, accommodation, and other necessities were significant concerns. However, discovering the L’Oréal Young Women in Science Scholarship which provided ₹62,500 annually for four years proved to be a transformative game changer for my family.
Buddy4Study: What has been your source of inspiration?
Krupa: My family has been my greatest source of inspiration with their constant support and belief in my abilities. Additionally, the brilliant women I met at L’Oréal scholarship alumni events in Delhi inspired me immensely through their stories of determination and resilience in overcoming significant challenges.
Buddy4Study: How has your family supported you in pursuing this academic journey?
Krupa: My family has been incredibly supportive. Despite their financial constraints they never allowed challenges to become barriers to my ambitions. My parents encouraged me to pursue my dreams and worked tirelessly to support my education, even when it came to financing my MBA from a premier institution.
Buddy4Study: How did you come to know about the L’Oréal Young Women in Science Scholarship and what steps did you follow?
Krupa: I discovered the scholarship whilst searching for opportunities online after Class 12. It is a prestigious scholarship granted to only 50 girls across India annually. The selection process had three stages: application submission, telephonic interview, and a final online personal interview where my parents attended as well.
Buddy4Study: Can you tell us about the impact of this scholarship on your educational experience?
Krupa: Receiving the selection email was one of the happiest moments of my student life. The ₹62,500 per year allowed me to focus on academics, competitions, and internships without financial stress. The scholarship also opened doors to valuable alumni events in Delhi that provided inspiration and networking opportunities with other merit-based scholars.
Buddy4Study: How did you transition from undergraduate studies to pursuing your MBA at IIM Lucknow?
Krupa: After completing my degree, I worked for nearly two years whilst preparing for my MBA aspirations. I prepared rigorously for the CAT and successfully converted interview calls from 20 of the 22 IIMs, eventually choosing IIM Lucknow for my MBA.
Buddy4Study: How are you financing your MBA education?
Krupa: Management education at premier institutions like IIMs is expensive, so I obtained an education loan from the Central Bank of India. The process was smooth and the loan covers tuition fees, hostel charges, gadgets, and other academic requirements. I also recommend that students explore the Central Sector Interest Subsidy Scheme (CSIS) for additional support.
Buddy4Study: What are your ambitions for the future and how do you plan to execute them?
Krupa: My ambition is to contribute meaningfully to agricultural development and sustainability by leveraging my technical background and management expertise. After my MBA, I plan to work with organisations focused on agricultural innovation, sustainability and rural development initiatives.
Buddy4Study: Any piece of advice that you would like to impart to other potential aspirants constrained by financial challenges?
Krupa: Never assume that a scholarship is beyond your reach. Spend time researching opportunities on platforms like Buddy4Study, apply sincerely and prepare well for interviews. Believe in your abilities as many students from similar backgrounds have succeeded. Remember that scholarships are investments in your potential that can transform your life.
Are you feeling motivated after reading the scholarly success story of Krupa? If yes, then start your search for a suitable scholarship on Buddy4Study and apply. There is a possibility that you could be the next successful scholar.