At 21, Rasheeda Daniels is pursuing a future beneath the Earth’s surface.
The Guyanese scholar is studying Research Exploration Engineering at China Petroleum University in Beijing. Her training covers geology, mineral analysis, fossil studies, and the processes involved in petroleum formation. Daniels received the opportunity through a scholarship program funded by CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited (CPGL). The initiative is conducted in collaboration with Guyana’s Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR).
The program aims to build local expertise for Guyana’s expanding energy sector. It gives students access to specialized education and training overseas. Daniels, who grew up in South Turkeyen, attended Cummings Lodge Secondary School before moving to Queen’s College. Her interest in science was shaped by her curiosity about the natural world and her preference for practical learning.
“I’ve always been an adventurous person,” she told the STEM edition of Energy Magazine. “I always liked the outdoor fieldwork, as well as the office-based work, and I always knew that I wanted to pursue a science-related career.”
At Queen’s College, she studied geology, biology, chemical engineering, and petroleum engineering. Her exposure to those subjects strengthened her interest in geology and the processes that shape the Earth.
“And out of those, I found that I like the earth more – the earth processes, its evolution, the cycle… and so I found myself looking towards the geological fields,” Daniels said.
The scholarship was brought to her attention by a relative who knew of her interest in the sciences. Daniels initially questioned whether she should apply but later submitted a successful application.
The program covers tuition, travel, accommodation, medical insurance, and a monthly stipend. This support removes several of the financial barriers that could prevent Guyanese students from studying overseas.
Daniels said students also benefit from guidance provided by CNOOC and the Ministry of Natural Resources. Program coordinators Tanza McAlmont of CNOOC and Arianna Seeraj of the ministry help scholars adjust to the academic, cultural, and practical demands of living abroad.
Twelve students have received scholarships through the initiative so far. The next cohort of four students is expected to begin its degree program at the end of August 2026. Daniels’ studies focus on the Earth, its history, and its resources. Students examine geological structures, minerals, fossils, and the processes that form petroleum deposits.
Her technical training includes mineral identification and fossil analysis. Students study mineral samples, identify crystal structures, and determine their composition. They also analyze fossils to understand what their characteristics reveal about the Earth’s history.
Daniels said mathematics, chemistry, physics, geology, biology, and geography provide a strong foundation for students interested in research exploration and engineering. She urged aspiring scholars to pursue these subjects at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination levels. She also encouraged young women to enter STEM fields, including areas traditionally dominated by men.
“Whether they’re deciding geoscience or STEM, whatever it is, male-dominated or not, it should solely be based on what their ambitions and aspirations are, and nothing else,” Daniels said.
Her advice is to avoid allowing uncertainty to become a barrier.
“You won’t know until you try,” she said. “If you try and you realize that it’s not for you, that is okay. It’s always okay to start again.”
Daniels believes success in the energy sector requires more than technical knowledge. She highlighted courage, confidence, communication, and teamwork as important qualities.
Before moving to China, she developed those skills through debates, speeches, event hosting, and public-speaking opportunities. She said those experiences prepared her to express ideas clearly, work with others, and adjust to a multicultural academic environment.
After graduating, Daniels will be required to complete five years of service with CNOOC or the Ministry of Natural Resources under the terms of the scholarship program.
