Ainiy is a second-year international student from Indonesia studying Geography with Business at Queen Mary University of London. She was awarded the Annual Fund Performance Scholarship, which has supported her academic journey and fuelled her ambitions in sustainability and social impact.
My name is Ainiy, and I am an international student from Indonesia. Growing up, my family has been a major influence on me when it comes to giving back and caring for society. Many of my relatives are involved in activism, which has inspired me to focus on social change and environmental impact in my studies and future career.
Now in my second year at Queen Mary, I’ve found the workload to be significantly more challenging than I expected. I knew university life would be demanding, but having exams and assignments during breaks was overwhelming at first. Time management became crucial, especially as I’m also involved in societies. Balancing these commitments hasn’t been easy, but it’s taught me so much about perseverance and prioritisation.
I’m currently the Head of Marketing for Formula Student, a society where engineering students design and build cars. I manage the marketing efforts for the team, which allows me to combine my interest in Formula 1 with a sense of community. The society is incredibly inclusive, and it’s been wonderful to be part of a supportive group that shares my passions. These extracurricular activities provide such valuable experiences and help me find balance amid the intensity of academic life.
Receiving my scholarship has been a transformative experience. It feels incredible to have my hard work recognised and appreciated. It’s a huge source of motivation to keep pushing through the challenges. Knowing that there are people who believe in me and my potential is so empowering.
While I’m fortunate to have financial support from my parents, transferring money internationally can sometimes take time, which has left me needing to cover emergencies on my own. The scholarship has been a crucial safety net for me, providing peace of mind and financial stability during moments of uncertainty. London is significantly more expensive than Jakarta, and managing the cost of living has been an ongoing challenge. However, the university’s signposting to student support schemes has been a lifeline for many of us, ensuring no one feels alone in their struggles.
As I look to the future, my aspirations have evolved. Initially, I considered a career in policymaking, but I’m now drawn toward roles in ESG (environmental, social and governance) consultancy, focusing on social improvement and sustainability. I’m eager to find internships with companies that align with my values, and my advisor has been incredibly helpful in mapping out opportunities, even suggesting postgraduate study as a potential next step.
To all the alumni and supporters who make scholarships like mine possible: thank you. Your generosity has made such a difference in my life, and I hope to pay it forward one day. My experience at Queen Mary has shown me the value of hard work, determination and community, and I am committed to making the most of the opportunities I’ve been given.