From India to London: My Experience

My name is Annsh Chawla, and I hail from the bustling metropolis of New Delhi, India. As a final-year college student, I had the privilege of attending two stimulating sessions at LSE Summer School last year. I did not know what to expect prior to my arrival in London, given that it was my first time studying abroad. However, after arriving and settling into High Holborn, the LSE accommodation in which I was staying (situated within a five-minute walk from campus), I was struck by the cosmopolitan atmosphere, with students from all corners of the world converging at Summer School. While it took me a few days to adjust to this new environment, I quickly discovered that this life-changing experience would elicit the best from me.

COURSES

I enrolled in two courses during my time at LSE - MG101: Marketing and MG250: Management and Economics of Digital Innovation. I found it fascinating to delve into these subjects, gaining a comprehensive understanding of each topic. Engaging case studies on companies such as Starbucks and Land Rover were presented to us each day, which provided valuable insights into the topics discussed in the lectures. The diverse student body in my class added an extra layer of enrichment, as everyone brought their unique perspectives and backgrounds to the discussions. Additionally, I was fortunate to have a team of exceptional professors for these courses, who shared valuable knowledge and guidance during lectures and one-on-one conversations.

SPARK: PROFESSIONAL SKILLS PROGRAMME

The Spark programme was like the cherry on the cake, elevating my summer school experience to new heights. LSE had a pre-planned schedule of seminars, including CV workshops, entrepreneurial bootcamps, and many more, focusing on developing professional skills, which proved to be highly informative and interactive. These sessions allowed me to sharpen my skills in a variety of areas and enabled me to meet new people on campus whom I would not have encountered otherwise.

THE CITY OF LONDON

After the first week at summer school, I had found my comfort zone, having formed a group of friends from diverse cultures. Exploring London with them was a joyous experience, as the city offers an array of activities and attractions to suit every taste.

Whether it was hanging out at renowned locales such as Oxford Street, Baker Street, Piccadilly Circus and Westminster, or participating in activities such as ice-skating, shopping, golfing, or simply relaxing on the rooftop of the New Academic Building at LSE with fellow students, the opportunities were endless. Museums, musicals, theatres, the Sky Garden, and the world-famous ZSL Zoo are just a few of the city's highlights.

There are a huge number of dining options, with every restaurant offering something unique. On the weekends, I had the chance to attend concerts and sport matches at iconic stadiums, explore amusement parks like Thorpe Park, and visit beautiful coastal cities like Brighton.

The highlight of my summer was witnessing the Wimbledon finals!

OXFORD AND CAMBRIDGE

The best part of the LSE Summer School experience was the opportunity to participate in the day trips to Oxford and Cambridge on the weekends. I was fortunate to attend both, one in each session, and travelled with a group of students I had met at LSE. We visited university colleges and historical sights, and our tour guide provided a captivating and informative introduction to these, leaving us in awe. Following the tour, we were given three hours to explore the city on our own, allowing me to appreciate the diverse perspectives of my fellow students.

LSE ACTIVITIES

LSE provided a wide range of activities to cater to different interests and hobbies. For fitness enthusiasts, there was a fully equipped gym, as well as a sports hall for basketball, volleyball, and football. As a keen runner, I was thrilled to join the LSE organised running club and go on weekly runs through the city, exploring different neighbourhoods and scenic routes while getting some exercise.

LSE also organized a variety of social events and parties that brought students together from all over the world. I fondly remember the Thames River Cruise, where we sailed down the river, enjoying the stunning views of London while socialising and making new friends. The farewell parties were another highlight of the summer school experience, with lively music, dancing, and great food.

In addition to these activities, LSE also offered a plethora of opportunities to explore London's rich culture and history. The campus was conveniently located near many famous landmarks and attractions, including museums, theatres, and art galleries. The LSE library was also a great resource for research and studying.

CONCLUSION

Overall, LSE Summer School provided an incredible experience, not just in terms of academics, but also in terms of social and cultural enrichment. It truly attracts students from all around the world, and it's no surprise why.

This blog was written by one of our 2022 Student Ambassadors, who are here to share their stories and help you understand the summer school experience at LSE.