Martha McCurdy, MSc Political Sociology, London School of Economics
Funding for Fees
I still cannot believe that I am writing this post, several months ago when I first started looking for funding I couldn’t imagine getting to where I am now. I received an offer to study an MSc in Political Sociology at the LSE and I knew that I could not turn down this opportunity. Unfortunately I did not have my own independent means to fund my course, and so, following my offer, I began researching the possibilities for funding At a first glance the idea of finding postgraduate funding is very daunting but don’t let this stop you from pursuing your ambitions - with inspiration from the Alternative Guide and with my determination, I have successfully won several grants toward my Masters tuition fees.
I started researching what grants are out there and the Alternative Guide has an incredible database for finding them! I contacted as many charities and organisations as I could, keeping a diary of those I had positive responses from. I then dedicated my time to writing application letters - where I had to provide details about my financial situation, budget plan for the year, and references.
I was so pleased to receive the first response from the Ruby and Will George Trust in the spring, which motivated me to continue applying. I then received grants from the Vegetarian Charity and the Altrusa Careers Trust, and then the Leverhulme Trades Charities Trust. So far I have managed to raise half of my tuition fees - £6,000 - and will continue to apply for funding during my Masters course, I have also been inspired by the other student stories to run a crowdfunding campaign.
I would urge anybody interested in studying to really spend the time researching and see what grant opportunities are out there! It does require commitment and a time investment for researching and applying, but without the help of all these charities, I would not have been able to take up my place at the LSE. I am so excited about this incredible opportunity to study and so thankful for all the help and support from everyone! The Alternative Guide to Postgraduate Funding has been invaluable in my search for funding, thank you so much for this amazing resource.
Congratulations to Martha for raising this impressive sum from four different charitable trusts!