Yernar Sakenov

Yernar Sakenov is 22. Today a master’s student in Astana, he once spent his late evenings running around his Almaty courtyard with other boys. In 2023, while studying at IITU, our compatriot applied to the Yessenov Foundation and, after passing the competitive selection, became a recipient of the Shakhmardan Yessenov Scholarship. He shares his journey into Data Science, how he won the competition, and what his plans for the future are. He also provides life hacks for this year’s Scholarship applicants.

Choosing a Speciality
My interest in science was formed back in school. I loved physics and frequently participated in olympiads, including international ones. I considered continuing my education in the natural sciences and was even admitted to leading Russian universities, such as MIPT and SPbSU, but ultimately decided to stay and study in Kazakhstan. I was looking for something at the intersection of science and working with mathematical models, and I chose Data Science. This field combines both data analysis and applied research.

The Yessenov Foundation Scholarship Competition
I learned about the Yessenov Scholarship from a university teacher I knew at KazNU. He recommended that I apply. I studied all the information about the competition on the Foundation’s website and social media, and submitted my application. The competition was organized at a very high level. I felt that the Foundation supports not only candidates with strong academic achievements, but also those who are proactive, well‑motivated, and eager to apply their knowledge in practice. The competition helped me realize where I want to go next.

Why I won
In my case, I believe it was thanks to my academic achievements and active involvement beyond my studies. I participated in many university projects, conducted research, and simultaneously interned at a major telecommunications company. In other words, I was both gaining knowledge and applying it in practice.

Advice for future Yessenov Scholarship applicants
I recommend carefully studying the Program Provisions and selection criteria. Generally speaking, to prepare your application properly and clearly highlight your strengths, you should start preparing well in advance, rather than just a month or two before the deadline. Be prepared to explain your motives for participating clearly and concisely during the interview.

What you share about your achievements should demonstrate your initiative and your drive to develop both professional and personal competencies. Speak with confidence, show your ability to work in a team, and highlight an original approach to solving assigned tasks. Be sincere – the Foundation’s experts will appreciate that.

How I spent the Scholarship
I used the funds to pay for English language courses, followed by a two-month IELTS intensive preparation program. The Scholarship covered the cost of the courses and all necessary materials, so there was no strain on my personal budget. By the way, I needed the IELTS score for my admission to Nazarbayev University.

Where I am now
After completing my bachelor’s degree at IITU, I enrolled in a master’s program in Data Science at Nazarbayev University, where I am currently studying. At the same time, I work as a data analyst at one of the country’s leading banks. After finishing my master’s, I plan to pursue a PhD abroad.

And besides studying…
In my free time, I tutor schoolchildren in mathematics and physics, preparing them for university admission. Some are getting ready for the UNT, while others are training for national and international olympiads. When explaining the material, I aim to develop their logical thinking skills and analytical approach.

Childhood Memories
My brightest memories are of summer vacations. Back then, the courtyard felt like an entire world, and our games lasted until nightfall. We ran, fell, and laughed so loudly that our laughter echoed through the streets. We never noticed how fast time was flying by. The smell of warm asphalt, scraped knees, and the feeling of complete freedom, along with friends – these have stayed in my memory forever, just like the adventures that happened to us every single day.