Chevening is primarily an opportunity of earning a master’s degree in the UK. That means it is all about attending classes, which was entirely online for the so-called pandemic batch; going through endless readings that could pretty much eat up most of your days; and writing academic pieces where I constantly received feedback of my work not being critical or analytical enough. Doing post-grad studies takes a lot of effort and it can be overwhelming at times. So taking a break every now and then is encouraged.
What best way to have a breather but travel and enjoy the many lovely sights and sounds the UK can offer. London’s buzz can be energizing and there’s always a new place to see and visit. I love being in open, green spaces, and I have to say I quite enjoyed walking the great expanse of St. James Park, Green Park, Hyde Park, and the Kensington Gardens as my happy, tired feet would attest. London is also the place to be to catch awesome musicals and theatre shows. Outside London, together with fellow Filipino Cheveners, I was able to go on several trips. One was a day trip to Cambridge where we tried punting and marveled at the magnificent buildings in this university city. We had another day trip to Brighton which meant a hike might as well be made to the nearby Seven Sisters Country Park where you get to see chalk cliffs on Britain’s coastline. We made it all the way to Liverpool, the birthplace of the English rock band, The Beatles. And I would have to say Scotland’s Edinburgh, Inverness and Isle of Skye were some of my favorite destinations because of their charm. In the words of our guide, ‘The landscape is ever changing but constantly beautiful.’
Back at my uni, UEA, an initiative dubbed ‘Active Campus’ encourages students to stay physically active. I am not really a sporty person but there is usually an offering of a variety of activities to choose from. I joined ‘Navigate Norfolk’ walks in Thetford, Blakeney, Wells, Winterton-on-Sea, and Brancaster. I did wall climbing, swimming, and even signed up to ballet classes. I also learned to play football which is a lot of fun and it was made more enjoyable because we played with our professors. I still do not know all the rules, to be honest. But as long as you can kick the ball, you’ll be fine.
Volunteering has always been part of my life and I always look out for ways to be involved. I was able to participate in litter-picking activities of The Conservation Volunteers. I, likewise, committed to devoting each Monday of my week to help out with planting, watering, weeding, and harvesting at the allotment of Stepping Stones Project . It is nice to be able to to give back and give a little helping hand.
Above all, it has been a delight to connect with people whether virtually or in person. I met up with old friends whom I haven’t seen for ages. I gained a new family through the Pinoy Cheveners and is now a part of a network of leaders and changemakers all over the world. I had insightful conversations with strangers who I may not ever meet again. And I’m glad that my path crossed with lovely individuals who are strangers at first but turned into friends eventually, maybe even for a lifetime.
My Chevening journey is nearing its end but there are still so many places to visit. So many things to do and experience. So many people to meet. So little time. I am definitely trying to make the most of it. But since ‘every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end’ (Closing Time, Semisonic), I am also looking forward to what’s in store for me next.
Green Minded Me 