Applying to Summer School - Tips and Experience

I cannot help but remember my first day at Summer School; excitedly walking the streets of London, down to Aldwych where the Summer School office is situated. I was looking forward to learning new things in a renowned institution. As a postgraduate student, I intended to pursue further knowledge to expand my research capabilities and future career prospects in the area of development economics. Where else could I have done this than in one of the top social science universities in the world?

In my blog, I am going to share my tips to help you with the application process for LSE Summer School, and how to make the most of the experience when you are there!

Believe you can get in!

I am from Nigeria, often called the 'Giant of Africa', and I smile at my memories of introducing myself and sharing about my country and culture with my LSE colleagues - conversations ranging from the economy, food, language, braided hair and much more! If you are from a developing country like me, or anywhere in the world but feel unsure if Summer School is for you, I would encourage you to try – the student body is incredibly diverse and welcoming, and as long as you meet the admission requirements, you have every right to be there!

Before Applying - Research

Head to the Summer School website, and utilise the course finder feature. Read through the available courses in line with your degree or profession, note the academic qualifications and criteria required and work towards it. Also, take note of the Academic Directors’ Scholarship, a scholarship offered by the Summer School to those who are exceptional applicants, which could be very useful - I know it has perks that you should definitely explore.

Signing up to the Summer School mailing list also proved very useful for me as I got up-to-date information; from the application process to virtual information sessions. I recommend keeping a close eye on your inbox, from the application stage to arrival at Summer School because the LSE team use emails to share important updates with students, from event registration to timetables.

Preparing for Summer School - Be Intentional!

After getting my admission offer from Summer School, I spoke to a Nigerian friend - who is also an LSE Summer School alum, and was a Student Ambassador. This helped me to prepare both academically and mentally for my trip to London, as well as learn about everything on offer in the city and at Summer School! I also connected with other offer holders and ambassadors using the Unibuddy Community app, to both get to know my fellow students before my arrival, and to get tips from previous students about how to make the most of my course and experience over the coming summer. I recommend signing up to Unibuddy Community as soon as you have your offer, as it is a great place to chat about everything before you arrive on campus.

During Summer School – Make the Most of Every Opportunity

It can feel daunting to join such a diverse classroom, especially if you are the only person from your university or home country. If you find yourself in a similar situation, I would advise you to contribute confidently during lectures, ask questions, make friends and study in groups. Most people are very willing to make friends, and it’s best to remember that LSE Summer School is new for everyone, so you’re all in the same boat! Attend your lectures and classes, but also create time to enjoy events organised by the Summer School. One of my personal favourites was the Spark event, called Intercultural Communication. Take advantage of social events that drive you to explore London’s iconic sites with your Summer School classmates. This will help you make connections outside the classroom, and potentially take you out of your comfort zone! I enjoyed exploring London’s public transport systems and trying new cuisines not readily available in my home country. As Summer School rounded up, I had formed invaluable friendships with my colleagues, especially my Teaching Assistant and class group!

I encourage you to apply as an LSE Summer School Student Ambassador (watch out for that email once you start your summer session!) This is another great way to meet people and share your unique experience with future applicants from developing countries.

After Summer School – Stay in Touch!

Summer School does not have to end after the final exams. If you have networked during your time in London, stay in touch, think of how you can utilise all you have learnt to positively influence those in your career space or other students in your home university and country.

I truly hope this blog has helped; now it is your time to click the apply button! Wishing you all the very best.

 

Until I come to you again in writing,

Ó dààbò (It means goodbye)

 

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.