GMA News’ Micaela Papa on life as Chevening scholar

One year after she became one of 27 Filipinos awarded a Chevening scholarship by the UK government in 2015, GMA News senior news correspondent Micaela Papa is pursuing a Masters degree in Documentary by Practice (documentary filmmaking) at the Royal Holloway, University of London (RHUL).

“RHUL was highly ranked in this field and was very supportive in my initial talks with them. They had highly respected documentary directors, such as Marc Isaacs, as tutors,” she said.

Papa said that her classes were not the usual lectures she was used to in the Philippines. Instead, the program is practice-based, with brainstorming and feedback sessions.

“I think this is very apt for a filmmaking program, as we’re given free rein to explore our creativity, find our own voice,” she continued.

The Chevening Scholarships are awarded by the British government to those who have a vision and drive to become future leaders in their chosen fields and countries.

Micaela Papa in the UK

Homesick

One of the things that Papa made sure to secure before leaving the Philippines was her accommodations in the UK.

“I think it is definitely wiser to secure your accommodations before arriving in the UK like I did, but make sure you are letting with a reputable housing agent or, if possible, your own university,” she said.

But even with a place to stay and a interesting classes to take, living in London also had its downsides. There were times Papa missed home.

While she could connect with her fellow Filipinos there, Papa chose to expand her horizons and took time to befriend non-Filipino students.

“This is your chance to learn so much about the world. Most of my education about international cultures occurred at the dinner table, not in the classroom,” she said.

To ease her homesickness, Papa started learning how to cook.

“Nothing will make you feel more at home than sipping a hot spoonful of sinigang, so it would be best to live somewhere you can cook your own food,” she said.

Homesickness is just one of the many challenges waiting for those who choose to study abroad. But Papa reminds them that getting higher education should be more than just adding more to one’s educational background.

“Learn more about your identity and why you’re studying in the UK. It’s not to leave home, but to make home better. You must be doing it for your country, not just for yourself. You are doing this to return and give back to the Philippines,” she said.
— Trisha Macas/BM, GMA News