Scholarship Stories: Krish Chopra

Growing up, opportunities were limited for Krish. With tough financial conditions, he often shared a room with four other family members and moved homes frequently. But with hard work, resilience, and vital scholarship support, he’s now pursuing all possibilities open to him at Warwick Business School (WBS).

Krish was one of the rare few who moved from his struggling primary school to a state grammar school. There, he thrived academically, achieving top grades in his GCSEs.

From 16, Krish took on growing responsibilities. He became a young leader and ambassador for a charity supporting underrepresented youth and launched a business selling rings and custom embroidery, using the income to help his parents cover rent, mortgage payments, and school-related expenses.

By 17, he was completely financially independent from his parents. Over the course of his studies, he juggled two to three jobs – covering his school fees, food, and extracurricular costs. Despite these pressures, he achieved A*,A,A,A in his A-levels – results he’s proud of, especially given the circumstances. After finishing school, Krish was no longer living at home, and had to spend the summer couch-surfing and staying with friends while saving for university. He applied for every opportunity he could find, knowing he’d need all the support available.

"I remember the moment I found out I’d received the WBS scholarship – I was already studying at the business school, and it was during a lecture. I was so overwhelmed with excitement I asked to leave and ended up shouting with joy in the bathroom! That day changed everything for me.”

As an International Management student, Krish is studying a business-focused course that builds on his skills. Strengths that he found he’d developed early on in life despite having a lack of financial guidance, formal training, and experience of business. With a natural confidence and aptitude for numbers and negotiation, the subject felt like the perfect fit.

“I knew business was the right choice because I ran my own business. I thought, if I could do that at 16 with no experience, imagine what I could achieve with a degree.”

With the support of his scholarship, Krish has been able to focus on his studies and personal development – and fully enjoy his time at Warwick. So far, he’s joined the Thai and Debating societies, as well as sports clubs including tennis, mixed hockey, and lacrosse. He also holds executive roles in Warwick Entrepreneurs and a new travel society.

“Knowing I had support for the next four years gave me comfort and the freedom to make the most of university life. I’ve joined societies and met people who introduced me to opportunities I never would’ve had if I’d been working nonstop and having to finance myself through my studies. It means the world to me.”

Krish’s experience has already taken him beyond Warwick. Through the Warwick International Intensive Study Programme, he received a £2,000 bursary to study in Italy, completing a module that will give him credit towards his degree next year.

“Before, I couldn’t even consider going to another UK city for work experience – but now I’ve been able to study in Italy. If I can do that in my first year, I can definitely see myself doing a year abroad in third year – and feeling much more confident – thanks to the support of my scholarship. I can’t imagine gaining this kind of experience without it.”

Krish’s first year at Warwick has been a time of exploration, reflection, and personal growth. From new friendships to academic opportunities, every experience has helped shape his identity and confidence. But even before arriving on campus, he had a sense that Warwick would be more than just a place to study – it would be a place to belong.

“After hearing a WBS alumnus describe Warwick as a ‘close-knit family where everyone pursues their passions’ during a school event, I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of. In just a short time, I’ve grown through new experiences, met people from all walks of life who’ve changed how I see the world, adapted to new spaces, and discovered more about myself than I ever expected.”

Your support opens doors for students like Krish – helping them overcome barriers and realise their potential, regardless of their background or the obstacles they've had to overcome.

"A simple thank you never feels like enough. But to anyone who has donated through volunteering time or through a financial gift – please know that your support truly changes lives. Thanks to you, our alumni community like no other, students like me have time to grow, learn, and fully embrace our time at Warwick and plan for what comes next."

We’ll continue following Krish’s journey at Warwick and keep you updated on his progress, accomplishments, and aspirations along the way.