BEST Scholarship year at The New School, NYC

Focused on education through travel - the BUNAC Education Scholarship Trust (BEST) was created 35+ years ago to help UK students and graduates to undertake postgraduate study in the USA and Canada. Here's scholarship awardee, Anna, on her experience studying in New York.

What made your first year at The New School so impactful?

My first year at The New School was intellectually rigorous, stimulating and hugely enjoyable. I explored three key research areas – theory of the international monetary and financial system, greening central banking, and credit unions and stakeholder banking – while publishing four pieces and speaking at three academic conferences and completing an editorial internship. Beyond the classroom, I appreciated The New School’s rich, interdisciplinary approach, taking courses in cooperative history, Black Studies, and ecological justice. It was the ideal place to grow as a scholar, connect with inspiring mentors, and develop the skills I need for the next stage of my career.

What is the most exciting thing you’ve studied, and how has it shaped your academic journey?

This year, I tackled big questions about money, banking, and cooperative economies. I wrote about monetary sovereignty and the role of Black-owned credit unions as pockets of resistance during Jim Crow, presenting my work at conferences in New York and the UK. I also strengthened my skills in economic modeling and earned top grades. Looking ahead, I’m excited to join a PhD-level class on Advanced Macroeconomics next semester to build on everything I’ve learned. These experiences have been challenging, inspiring, and key to my growth as a researcher.

What practical opportunities helped you grow your skills this year?

This year, I had incredible opportunities to consolidate my knowledge and develop my skills. I worked as a Teaching Assistant for an undergraduate economics course, leading weekly seminars for 75 students and sharpening my public speaking and leadership abilities. I also interned as an editorial assistant at Public Seminar, The New School’s online journal of politics, ideas and culture, where I copyedited, wrote a book review, and conducted interviews that were published online. These experiences gave me practical skills, boosted my confidence, and allowed me to share my work with a wider audience.

Looking to get financial support to study overseas? Applications for BEST Scholarship funding close on the 14 March '25. Find out more and apply over at our JENZA Travel Group scholarship page here.