As you study to the best, embrace extracurricular activities, students told

MMU alumnus and Rhodes Scholarship beneficiary Mr Martin Wafula has challenged university students to embrace extracurricular activities and be original in everything they do in the course of their academic studies.

Mr Wafula was speaking at MMU during an interactive session with the university’s students about post-graduate scholarship opportunities, application processes and the importance of achieving good grades while in campus.

While sharing his campus life and academic journey while at MMU and abroad, Mr Wafula urged the students to always embrace extracurricular activities and be original in everything they do, adding that originality and authenticity are key determining factors in scholarship selection and award process.

“One thing I realized in this scholarship process is the importance of the ability to be yourself. The originality and authenticity matters a lot even to those reviewing your scholarship application,” said Wafula.

The University of Oxford DPhil in Engineering Science student also noted that while good academic performance account for a bigger score in the application,   extracurricular activities that one engaged in while in campus can be the unique advantage that qualifies them for the scholarship.

“Always study to the best. However, remember it is not enough. The volunteer work you do, sports you play, drama club you lead, the mentorship sessions you engage yourself in, separates you from others who have equally attained the best grades,” advised Wafula.

He urged the students to never shy away from applying for available scholarship opportunities saying that most students eliminate themselves out even before applying for the scholarships.