MBA scholars on the power of Championing the Community

Recipients of the MBA Change Maker – Championing the Community scholarship share how this opportunity has empowered them on their MBA journey, enabling them to amplify their impact, strengthen their leadership in community initiatives, and foster transformative personal and professional growth.

Pallavi Kalpande – Full-time MBA

I have recently completed my Full-time MBA at Warwick Business School (WBS). My work experience is, predominantly, in Business Analysis as well as Customer Success Management and Technical Sales. I specialise in Strategic Consultancy within the project environment and am eager to grow my portfolio in this field after my MBA.

What motivated you to apply for a scholarship?

Initially, my motivation to apply for a scholarship was to gain financial aid to study my MBA at WBS. However, once I started investigating more on the scholarships that were on offer, I realised that the application meant more than that.

I applied for the Championing the Community scholarship because I believe in empowering both the people and the society we live in. I was already a participating member of the Warwickshire & Solihull Community & Voluntary Action (WCAVA) when I applied, as well as actively promoting my local badminton club. I continued to offer my assistance anywhere I could during and post-MBA.

What does the scholarship mean to you?

The scholarship allowed me to achieve more than what I had planned from my MBA. Other than the course, I was able to take part in the University’s Badminton Team matches, Entrepreneurial Incubator events at Oxford and Cambridge and the Partnership in International Management (PIM) Exchange in Singapore. The support from the WBS staff has been incredible and it has allowed me to dream bigger and better without the restriction of finance had I not received the scholarship. So, the scholarship means to me more than you can imagine!

What impact has the scholarship had on your academic and personal goals?

The Scholarship meant that I was able to attend the MBA at WBS a year before I initially intended to. Academically, it has alleviated financial pressures, allowing me to focus entirely on my studies and pursue challenging opportunities like the PIM Exchange that aligned with my career aspirations. Personally, it has boosted my confidence and reinforced my belief in my potential to achieve my goals. This support has not only provided resources but also motivation, inspiring me to work harder and give back to the community in meaningful ways.

Do you have any advice to other considering applying for a scholarship?

Make your scholarship application personal and not what you think the reader would want to hear - don’t be afraid to be vulnerable. Take the time to reflect on your personal situation and what you’d like to achieve from your MBA scholarship. It’s important to note what you are going to achieve  but, most importantly, how will you create a positive impact within the type of scholarship you have gone for. At each stage of your scholarship application be sure to showcase your worth and how you will strive to create a positive impact and help reflect the CORE values of WBS.

Amit Raut – Executive MBA

I am the proud recipient of the "Change Maker - Championing the Community" scholarship at Warwick Business School (WBS), where I am currently pursuing an Executive MBA.

As an engineering professional with a background in automotive engineering, I am passionate about sustainability, innovation, and creating a positive impact on society. Raised in India, I have always been drawn to nature and community, striving to integrate social responsibility into every aspect of my life. Beyond academics, I find joy in travel, theatre, and embracing new experiences.

What motivated you to apply for the Change Maker – Championing the Community scholarship?

My decision to apply for a scholarship was driven by both practical and personal motivations. While the financial investment in an MBA is significant, I was equally drawn to the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and mentors. The scholarship represents Warwick Business School’s commitment to recognising hard work, dedication and potential, while encouraging graduates to contribute to the world through their CORE values, diversity, and positive impact.

I evaluated each scholarship based on the extent to which its values aligned with my personal and professional goals, and whether I could effectively demonstrate my commitment to those values.

I selected the Championing the Community Scholarship primarily due to fulfilling the eligibility criterion of residing in Coventry and Warwickshire. Furthermore, my strong interest in sustainable development aligns with the scholarship's focus. I have consistently strived to make a positive societal impact by:

• Creating entry-level job opportunities for young graduates.
• Providing mentorship and guidance to aspiring professionals.
• Facilitating decent work and growth opportunities for more experienced employees, particularly during the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic.

These experiences demonstrate my dedication to community development and align with the scholarship's values.

What does the scholarship mean to you?

This scholarship has been instrumental in my MBA journey, providing invaluable financial support that enables me to pursue my academic and professional goals. It has also served as a powerful validation of my academic achievements and my commitment to innovation, sustainable development, and diversity.

What impact has the scholarship had on your academic and personal goals?

The scholarship has allowed me to pursue my MBA journey and maximise my learning experience as the financial assistance has eased the financial burden allowing me to focus on academics and personal growth. Also, receiving this scholarship has boosted by confidence and motivated me to strive for excellence in all my endeavours. The network of faculty, fellow students and industry leaders I have built during my MBA has broadened my horizons and enhanced my entrepreneurial skills. It has also enabled me to participate and contribute actively within my organisation and other external initiatives demonstrating my commitment to creating a positive change. 

Do you have any advice for others considering applying for a scholarship?

Scholarships recognise your background, achievements, values and potential. Highlight your passion, ambitions, contributions and experiences, while staying authentic. Use these to articulate how the scholarship will enable you to achieve your goals and make a positive impact in society and industry. Start early so that you have enough time to refine your essays, seek guidance and feedback from past recipients or mentors. Lastly, a WBS scholarship is about becoming a lifelong "Change Maker." Always believe in yourself and the positive change you can create.