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A Day at LSE Summer School

A blog article from Summer School student Maëlys Strozyk.

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5 min read

Dive into the unique experience of LSE Summer School, directly from someone who lived it!

Attending LSE Summer School is much more than just taking classes. It's an immersion into a dynamic academic culture while discovering the magic of London. In my blog, I’m going to cover what a typical day in my student life looked like!

I started my day around 8:00. After a good breakfast, I’d head to campus. LSE is located in the heart of London, making every journey an opportunity to explore the city. As I walked to campus, I’d pass iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the London Eye, reminding me how unique this experience is!

At 9:00, I joined my seminar. These classes allowed us to delve deeper into the concepts discussed in our lectures, but in a smaller group setting. The course was captivating, led by passionate professors who shared their knowledge and experiences. They were extremely supportive and genuinely wanted us to succeed. It was truly a pleasure to learn from them!

At 10:30, the seminar ended. I took the opportunity to go out and explore the surrounding area with my friends. The campus’ location was very convenient - within minutes, we could reach must-see spots in London like Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square, and the famous Borough Market! When we had free time, we were spoiled for choice in terms of activities. The city is full of free museums, green spaces like St James’s Park and Hyde Park, and vibrant neighborhoods where we could experience different cultures. Additionally, the city has an excellent transport network, making every trip easy. Each outing became a new adventure, filled with history, art, and amazing food!

Around 12:00, I’d take a lunch break with my classmates. We often chose a local café where we could enjoy typical London dishes like fish & chips. It was a great opportunity to bond and discuss our course, projects, or simply share a good time together. These breaks were invaluable, allowing us to relax while strengthening our camaraderie before returning to lectures in the afternoon, re-energized and motivated.

From 14:00 – 17:00, I attended a lecture that was always captivating. The lectures, led by experts in their fields, offered a true immersion into complex and fascinating topics. Each lecture was an opportunity to delve into key concepts and explore case studies that enhanced our understanding of contemporary issues. Interaction with the professor and discussions among students made these classes even more dynamic. I always looked forward to participating, as they provided a unique and enlightening perspective on topics that truly inspire me.

After classes, I enjoyed the rest of the afternoon exploring London. Whether I was staying on campus for a drink with my friends at the George IV pub or taking a stroll along the River Thames, every moment was a new discovery. Thanks to LSE Summer School, I also had the opportunity to attend Spark events to enrich my professional skills and career prospects. With so many options available, each day became a new experience to enjoy!

In the evening, I’d meet up with my friends for a night out. Whether it’s a show in the West End, dinner in the city, or a concert in a pub, there was always something to do. These relaxation moments were essential for balancing work and pleasure.

Before heading back to my accommodation, I’d take a moment to reflect on my day. LSE Summer School is not just an academic experience; it’s also a true personal adventure. Each day was an opportunity to broaden my horizons, not only through stimulating courses but also through interactions with students from around the world. The discussions in class or over a coffee exposed me to new perspectives, enriching my understanding of global issues and diverse cultures. This experience pushed me out of my comfort zone, fostered my curiosity, and helped me forge friendships that I know will last well beyond the summer.

Within just a few days of arriving in London, I truly felt at home. The city’s dynamic atmosphere, combined with the diversity of students I’d meet, allowed me to adapt quickly. The LSE staff greatly contributed to this sense of belonging with their warm welcome and supportive guidance. Whether it was answering our questions, organising social events, or simply ensuring we felt comfortable, each team member created a friendly environment. This all made my integration smoother, making the experience both academically enriching and personally comforting. In just a few days, London became so much more than just a city: it was where I truly felt alive.

 

This blog was written by one of our 2024 Student Ambassadors, who are here to share their stories and help you understand the summer school experience at LSE.