Joalane Lemao shared her experience receiving the Penglai Scholarship for a national from a lower-income developing country and studying at the WTI in the following testimony.
How did you hear about the scholarship?
I heard about the scholarship from the WTI’s website, listed as a recommendationfor students who would need financial assistance.
How did it help you?
The scholarship covered most of my expenses through the entire TRAIL+ program. This did not only give me financial freedom but it contributed immensely to my mental well-being as my rent was paid on time and my stipend was never delayed.
What did you find most beneficial from the scholarship ?
I had an opportunity to pursue my dream of studying LL.M. in one of the reputable institutions in terms of international trade law. WTI’s programs are a rarity, as they do not only focus on law but also economics, which is a very unique combination. If for not GIA, I would not have had a chance to access this kind of program.
How was your experience in the WTI?
My experience at WTI was bittersweet, but I would not have it otherwise. It took time before I could adjust to the new environment and community. However, I have gathered a wealth of knowledge from my professors. For this, WTI did not only nurture my academic life, it helped me grow personally as I had to interact with people from different parts of the world and learn how to accommodate everyone’s values.
What would you say to someone attempting that scholarship?
For anyone attempting this scholarship, it will be hard but your passion will carry you through.
Why do you think it is relevant for students in your country in general?
Lesothois a small landlocked country with very few numbers of trade lawyers. Because of this, it participates less in the international trade arena. This leads to slow progress towards its economic growth. With this scholarship, more students can have access to training in the area of international trade and investment law. This would capacitate them to better position Lesotho to take advantage of
ways in which it could improve its economy through trade and investment.
Lastly, I wish to thank the permanent mission to the WTO of the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu for this immeasurable opportunity. My dream came faster than I expected.
If you have any questions about the scholarships, don't hesitate to reach out!