How Tripti’s scholarship helped her move from Delhi’s slums to the University of Sydney

Tripti grew up in the slums of Delhi, where basic amenities such as clean water, proper bathrooms and reliable electricity were often unavailable. Now she is studying Master of Strategic Public Relations at the University of Sydney, living at St Paul’s College and gaining the knowledge and skills necessary to build a successful career.

Tripti arrived in Sydney in June 2024 to begin her Graduate Academic Skills course provided by Centre for English Teaching, before starting her master’s degree in August 2024. She is a recipient of one of the University’s new Sydney International Equity Scholarships – created for exceptional postgraduate students from disadvantaged backgrounds around the world – awarded in collaboration with Indian charity, the Asha Community Health and Development Society (Asha).

Tripti, one of four siblings, grew up in a two-room house in Vivekanand camp, where basic amenities were often unreliable. The family relied on a public washroom shared by over 3,000 people and faced intermittent water and electricity supply. Reflecting on her experience growing up in a Delhi slum, Tripti said, “as a girl, using these unhygienic facilities was uncomfortable and stressful.”

“We relied on tankers to fill our buckets and had to manage our daily water usage carefully, as there was no consistent water system. These issues with water, electricity, privacy and sanitation were constant challenges that impacted our daily lives,” Tripti said.

“Balancing studies with life in my slum community was challenging. The constant noise from music, children and nearby celebrations made it nearly impossible to study during the day. To focus, I had to wait until late at night when everyone else was asleep, the only quiet time available,” she said. Despite these challenges, Tripti remained committed to her education and completed her undergraduate degree from the University of Delhi with the support of the Asha Society.

Vice-President (External Engagement) Kirsten Andrews welcomed Tripti to the University community, and said she was looking forward to seeing her make the most of the opportunity and campus life.

“Under our strategy, we are committed to supporting a greater diversity of students to succeed at Sydney and want to ensure all our students can enjoy a transformative educational experience while they’re with us. We can’t wait to celebrate Tripti’s achievements, and those of all our international equity scholars, in the months and years ahead.”

Receiving a scholarship to study for a master’s degree abroad was a pivotal moment for Tripti. Reflecting on the moment she learned about the scholarship, Tripti said, “When I first heard that I might get a scholarship to study in Australia, I couldn’t believe it. Growing up in the slum, the idea of going abroad felt like a distant dream, something you see in movies but never think could happen to you.

“I thought it was just a prank. I remember when it was first mentioned by Dr Kiran, founder and director of Asha, I almost laughed, thinking, is she serious? This can’t be real. When she finally confirmed that I would be going to Sydney, I was overjoyed but also nervous.”

Since arriving at the University of Sydney, Tripti has been adapting to a new educational environment that emphasises practical learning and global engagement. She is thriving in this diverse setting and preparing to apply the knowledge and skills she is gaining to a future career in public relations.

Tripti says the scholarship provides more than just financial support, it is a gateway to a brighter future.

“The scholarship means everything to me. Without it, studying abroad would have been financially impossible, as my family can’t afford such expenses. Even considering government colleges in Delhi is a challenge, so this scholarship is a game-changer. For my family, it’s a major milestone. I’m the first in my family to study abroad, and this achievement makes them incredibly proud.”

About the scholarship

• The Sydney International Equity Scholarship is for exceptional postgraduate students from low-socio economic backgrounds from around the world.
• The scholarship is worth up to AU$100,000 and covers postgraduate tuition fees, a living allowance, textbooks, flights, health insurance and a residential place at St Paul’s College and is funded completely by the University of Sydney.
• The University of Sydney works with key global partners to identify eligible potential candidates.