May 14, 2010
Amrita School of Engineering, Amritapuri
 

Balagopal R., who just graduated from the Amrita School of Engineering at Amritapuri with a B.Tech. degree in Information Technology, was awarded the Huygens Scholarship, that will enable him to complete a two years masters’ program at Vrije University (VU) in Amsterdam.
 

Vrije University (VU) in Amsterdam is regarded as one of Europe’s most prestigious centers for higher learning. The Huygens Scholarship is given by the Dutch Ministry of Education to enable foreign students with a good academic record to study in Netherlands.
 

Throughout his four years at Amrita, Balagopal consistently placed at the top of his class.
 

“The MS program that I have been admitted to, is a stepping stone for me, in that it will finally enable me to reach my goal of becoming the best in this field,” enthusiastically shared Balagopal. “I am extremely happy and thankful to Almighty God for having received admission with full scholarship.”
 

When asked, what according to him, helped his selection, in addition to his excellent grades, he cited his internships with the likes of IBM, SUN Microsystems and Infosys during his tensure at Amrita. “I also always played an active role in departmental activities such as organizing technical fests, etc.,” he added.
 

“Besides becoming acquainted with industrial practices and developing leadership skills, these endeavors also helped me in preparing a good Statement of Purpose. Most of all, my professor Lata Wadhwani motivated and mentored me throughout the application process. All in all, it was the guidance and the opportunities that I received at Amrita that helped with this achievement.”
 

Does he have any advice for junior students who aspire to follow in his footsteps?
 

“Yes. Start preparation early, since it usually takes 6-8 months for the whole selection process. First of all, identify the area you desire to specialize in. The next step will be to find the right university. When selecting the university, pay special attention to the different scholarship schemes they offer.”
 

“Every university has its own specific application procedure, which is usually listed on the university website. Go through the website carefully. Then you will have to prepare the different documents and apply. Usually you are considered for a scholarship only after the university offers you admission.”
 

“My experience has been that, in order to get a scholarship in Europe, one needs a very good GPA. So improve on that. Also your extra-curricular achievements should be impressive.”
 

Amritian Archana N., who graduated from the same campus last year, and is currently enrolled at Vrije University was also awarded the same scholarship. Chancellor Amma had specifically told Archana that she should apply for the scholarship this year.
 

We congratulate both these achievers.