Kenny Chen, a second-year economics student and scholarship student, recently reflected on his transformative experience with the Insights Programme, which has shaped his confidence, professional skills and outlook on the future. The Insights Programme introduces selected students to the professional world by offering real-world exposure to a variety of sectors through connections to our global alumni network.  

This initiative helps selected students who have faced barriers to accessing university or those who come from under-represented groups to develop confidence, skills, and connections for their career journey. Insights aims to bridge the gap between academic study and professional success, demystifying professional workplaces and supports our students’ journeys from education to satisfying and rewarding futures.   

Before starting on the Insights Programme, Kenny felt uncertain about his career path and how to plan for university. “I didn’t really feel confident to step into a professional space,” he admits. He applied to the Programme to develop skills, knowledge, and networks to navigate the professional world, hoping to learn about networking and communication from alumni. 

His experience exceeded expectations. A highlight was connecting with his peers from diverse backgrounds when they travelled together to Washington, DC for their Immersion Week experience.  “The people in my group were incredibly supportive,” he says. “It expanded my worldview.” Interactions with alumni offered lessons beyond professional development, teaching him resilience, coping with setbacks, and viewing the future as a non-linear journey. “Hearing alumni share their experiences gave me wisdom I didn’t know I needed,” he reflects. 

Insights significantly boosted Kenny’s confidence. “It’s given me the confidence to step into a professional space, communicate effectively, make a good first impression, and navigate the unwritten rules of the workplace”, he explains. He also values the connections that continue beyond the Programme. 

Kenny also acknowledges the vital role of donors, whose support makes the Insights Programme possible. “Before this programme, I didn’t really know what I wanted out of my future. Insights gave me confidence, knowledge, and skills that allowed me to seize opportunities I wouldn’t have otherwise. The connections I’ve made wouldn’t have happened without donor support,” he says. 

Thanks to the generous support of alumni donors and volunteer hosts, the Insights Programme offers fully-funded visits for selected second-year undergraduate students to meet alumni in the UK or key global cities.” 

Find out more about how you can support the Insights Programme at: Support Insights | The Insights Programme | The University of Edinburgh 

Kenny Chen: Transformative Experiences Through the Insights Programme / Your Impact by is licensed under a