Josephine Ambalada (MSc Applied Neuroscience, 2022) is the founder of Winged Wonder Institute of Education in the Philippines, an organization dedicated to students with special needs. After graduating from the University of Oxford, Josephine initially planned to pursue a business course to enhance her school management skills. However, upon reflecting on the specific needs of her students, she identified the importance of viewing education through a broader lens; encompassing pedagogical, psychological, and neurological perspectives. As a result, she decided to pursue neuroscience and enrol in the MSc in Applied Neuroscience course at King's.

After graduating, Josephine quickly developed a research proposal on Autism and the Gut-Brain axis. By May 2023, she was admitted to a doctorate programme at the Functional Behavioural Science Laboratory in Chichester. While managing Winged Wonder remotely, Josephine travels between the UK and the Philippines to oversee the school's operations.

In February 2024, Josephine was nominated as a national finalist for the Study UK Alumni Awards from the British Council and ultimately won the National Award for Social Action.

 

What are your happiest memories of your time at King’s?

During my MSc course, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a shift to online learning rather than pursuing campus-based education. However, before the onset of the pandemic's many restrictions, I was fortunate to visit King's Denmark Hill campus, gaining a sneak peek into the laboratories and experiencing the life of a scientist firsthand. This exposure not only enriched my learning experience but also ignited a deeper passion within me to eventually pursue a PhD.

How have you stayed connected to King’s since graduating?

After graduating from King's, I have been fortunate to maintain contact with my tutors and mentors, who have guided me through my academic journey. Whenever their schedules allow, we meet for tea or lunch to discuss potential scientific collaborations. I am particularly grateful that one of our senior lecturers has agreed to be my scientific collaborator in my PhD programme at the University of Chichester. Overall, my mentors’ dedication to their roles and commitment to nurturing the skills and abilities of their students have been truly inspiring and motivating for me.

Why is your alumni network important to you?

Staying in touch with King’s contacts has been influential for me. In early May 2023, I met one of my KCL tutors and mentors at the Camberwell campus and shared my academic journey with her. She inspired me with a powerful message, saying that pursuing a doctorate in psychology or neuroscience in the UK is like competing within the Champions League, where only the best and brightest succeed and excel. Her words motivated me to continue, and by the end of May 2023, I was admitted to a doctorate programme. A few months into the programme, my supervisors praised my dedication and recognised the potential of my research to make a significant impact. This reminded me of the Bible passage in Galatians 6:9: "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

What advice would you give for success in life after King’s?

It’s essential to be mentally and emotionally prepared, viewing failures as steppingstones for growth. Embracing humility and faith is crucial, as sometimes, despite our best efforts, we might face rejections. It’s human nature to take such setbacks personally, especially if you have invested so much of your time, resources and heart into your aspirations. But it's important to remember that rejections are often redirections, guiding us towards better opportunities meant for us. Always have faith that the best is yet to come!

Has the ability to interact effectively with people from other cultures and backgrounds been important in your life?

Indeed. Interacting with people from diverse cultural backgrounds is crucial for expanding horizons and broadening perspectives. Engaging with different cultures enriches understanding, fosters empathy, and enhances personal and professional growth.