Help Raphaela achieve an MSc in Marine Renewables

I am venturing forth on a new challenge to study for an MSc in Marine Renewable Energy starting in September 2021 in Orkney (certificate of offer attached below). I am super excited and a bit nervous! However, I have just two months before starting and do not yet have the funds I need to do it. I was unable to continue my previous job due to Covid lockdowns and whilst I am doing everything I can to earn and save before I go I do need to ask for some help towards the tuition fees and living costs.

Fortunately I have received a student loan of £5500 towards fees and £4500 towards living costs. This leaves £2052 to raise for fees and a further £5000 plus for rent and basic living expenses. I have been looking into scholarships and bursaries, however have had no luck due to funding being cut (mainly because of Covid and Brexit) and quite honestly few sources of funding out there. I am continuing to search and I will try to find part time work on the island.

I graduated in 2008 achieving a MEng in Naval Architecture with Ocean Engineering. For a mixture of reasons, including lack of confidence, I did not pursue a career in this after graduation. Thirteen years on, after the difficulties posed by covid (and personal challenges), I have decided to go for it and follow the path towards a professional career in Marine Renewable Energy. This course will be essential for me to get back into the field, renew and expand my knowledge and will hopefully let me turn my life around.

I feel strongly that renewable energy plays a crucial part in addressing the climate crisis and I would love to play my part in helping this cause. Orkney has the European Marine Energy Centre where tidal and wave powered devices are tested and being near this hub of activity will be really inspiring and I feel it is the best place to be to enter the field of marine renewables.

Thank you very much in advance, any help would be hugely appreciated in helping me achieve my dream.

Warmest wishes to you all,

Raphaela

(Photo credit: Theasis Photography)