From Indonesia to Cambridge: A Chevening Scholar’s Perspective

Choosing the Cambridge MFin

With over a decade of experience in finance, spanning banking, consulting and innovative financial solutions, I am currently pursuing the Master of Finance (MFin) degree at Cambridge Judge Business School. As the only Chevening Scholar from Indonesia currently studying at the University of Cambridge, I see this as an incredible opportunity to enhance my financial expertise and expand my global network. The Chevening Scholarship is more than just funding as it is a platform to foster leadership, collaboration and impact. The Cambridge MFin programme aligns perfectly with my long-term ambition of driving financial innovation within financial institutions and consulting firms, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to the industry.

My Chevening Scholarship journey

Applying for the Chevening Scholarship was a deeply personal and professional decision. I was motivated by my desire to strengthen my knowledge in finance and expand my networking on a global scale. Chevening’s emphasis on leadership, networking and policy influence resonated with my aspirations of bridging finance with development.

Chevening is more than a scholarship. It is a lifelong network of global changemakers. The selection process reinforced the importance of resilience, adaptability and a strong sense of purpose. Becoming a Chevening Scholar was a defining moment in my career, opening doors to unparalleled academic and professional opportunities. It has given me access to a diverse community of leaders, allowing me to collaborate, learn and grow alongside some of the brightest minds from around the world.

Life at Cambridge Judge Business School

Transitioning from a professional role to academia has been both challenging and rewarding. The academic rigour is unparalleled, with world-class faculty delivering courses that blend theoretical frameworks with practical applications. From corporate finance to alternative investments, the curriculum is designed to equip professionals with the skills needed to navigate the complexities of global financial markets.

Beyond academics, Cambridge Judge provides an incredibly  diverse and intellectually stimulating environment. My classmates come from a variety of backgrounds, such as investment banking, asset management, fintech, and more. This creates a dynamic learning ecosystem where perspectives are constantly challenged and refined. The collaborative culture fosters deep discussions, peer learning, and the exchange of cutting-edge financial insights.

Beyond the classroom, I have participated in industry events, networking sessions and student-led initiatives that have enriched my experience. Engaging with Cambridge’s global alumni network has provided me with valuable mentorship opportunities and exposure to leading financial institutions and consulting firms. The balance between academic excellence and real-world application makes it a transformative experience for any finance professional.

Impact of the scholarship and future aspirations

The Chevening Scholarship and my time at Cambridge Judge have significantly reshaped my perspective on finance, leadership and global impact. Looking ahead, I aspire to leverage my expertise in financial institutions and consulting to drive sustainable investment strategies, innovative financial solutions and policy advisory initiatives. I am particularly passionate about bridging finance with impact investing, ensuring that capital allocation drives not just profit, but meaningful, long-term social and economic change.

Reflecting on my journey so far, I am incredibly grateful for the Chevening Scholarship, Cambridge Judge Business School and the mentors who have guided me along the way. The experience has been transformative, equipping me with the skills, knowledge and network to drive meaningful change in the financial sector.

This quote serves as a constant reminder that success is never an individual pursuit, but a shared achievement.