Mirriam Mwongeli Mueni

Community Bursary Award Holder

Joining us from: Kenya

MSc in Sustainability, Enterprise and the Environment (2021)

Mirriam graduated from the University of Nairobi with an undergraduate degree in Quantity Surveying in 2019. At Oxford, she is studying an MSc in Sustainability, Enterprise and the Environment. Her research interests are mainly in sustainability and climate change, especially in the construction industry. As a Rhodes Scholar, she is convinced that such an opportunity has afforded her ample time here in Oxford. 'I chose to study at Oxford University due to how the teaching of the program, I am on is done – workshops, seminars, guest speakers, field trips and close contact with tutors. In addition, Oxford University affords me a great opportunity to network with people from all over the world'.

She chose St Cross College because of a recommendation of a friend of hers studying in the College at the time of her application. 'He loved the diverse and friendly community. In his words: 'this is what you want around you when you are far away from home.' This has so far proven to be true and has enabled me to not only get to hear diverse opinions on multiple subjects but also given me a better understanding of the many opportunities out there in the world. Winning the St Cross Community Bursary has enabled me to further develop my volunteer work of mentoring girls in Kenya. With the bursary, I have been able to support several students from my rural home in Kenya with their high school fees for the term that started in January 2022. Such opportunities by St Cross College are very impactful and empowering and I am grateful to have the chance to be a beneficiary'.

My future goals include working as a sustainability expert in a global organization where I can create an impact across the globe. I also want to continue to volunteer and mentor girls in Kenya, helping them make the most of their time in school, seek and apply to opportunities worldwide.