See British Democracy At Work (literally!) Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Internships were the highlight of the program, with the most emphasis placed on them. Dissertations were another important part and were fairly academically rigorous. Classes and grading were not particularly harsh, indeed if anything they were easier than I was used to. Guest lectures provided context and added enrichment to an already exciting program.

On-site administration of your program

Hansard staff seemed a bit disorganized at times, but were generally very receptive to feedback, or at least were willing to respond and justify their actions. Everything worked out well in the end.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Three stars account for Conway Hall's excellent central London location alone. However, rooms were small, kitchen was badly designed, and building was generally dirty. Security felt pretty good. Facilities (washer/dryer) malfunctioned several times.

N/A: No program food was provided (in general), food in London was better than expected.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Integration was mostly at work and on our own social time. Met some interesting people at work who I got to know well. Also made friends with a pub owner down the street who was very friendly and welcoming. We had very minimal interaction with LSE students, except for in the library for the most part.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Plenty of pharmacies nearby. Other than that, I didn't really access British health care. Hansard staff showed concern and were helpful when I got sick on a program-sponsored trip (I was fine, just ate something that made me feel ill). Hansard provided names of physicians and other heath professionals to contact if we needed them.

London felt very safe. General caveats apply for a big city: watch your surroundings and bags. Parliamentary safety procedures were in place at work.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Figured out how to survive in London on the cheap easily enough. Cooked most of my dinners, sometimes bought booze at Tesco and Sainsbury's and drank at home rather than in pubs to save money (a pint averaged around £5). Ate lunch in Parliament, which had good food for very cheap. Markets were a bit of a splurge (although sometimes provided great value), but were well worth it for the cultural experience and better-quality food.

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• Apartment

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• Americans

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• Americans

• Internship
• Dissertation
• Living in the heart of London

• Organization
• Housing
• Rigor of classes

The Academic or Linguist