Transformative October 02, 2023

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Fantastic experience. It takes some adjusting to the LSE grading scale and academic experience relative to the US, but it quickly becomes extremely understandable and easy to adapt to. Classes are broken up into lectures and seminars, and each class meets for one lecture and one seminar each week. There are also very few in-year grades, the vast majority of the grade comes down to the final exam (the entirety for non-study abroad students). This can be daunting but manageable with a strong study schedule, particularly in the month or two leading up to finals. It is definitely rigorous, but dependent on which courses are taken.

On-site administration of your program

I found this to be great, largely because the program is intentionally hands off, and allows you to become a true member of the LSE community. There is not a huge seperation (if at all) between undergraduates, study abroad students, and graduate students, allowing for the best immersive experience.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I stayed in student accomodation, which I would highly recommend. Some accomodations do not provide meals (referred to as "catering"), so depending on how important this is, pick accomodation with intent. While seperated from most third year students at LSE since they typically live off campus with friends from 1st and 2nd year, you have the best immersive experience living in accomodation, and they are all well located in London and in proximity to LSE.

The catered food in the accomodation dining halls was surprisingly good. Each night, there would be several meat/fish options, several vegetables, and typically rice, alongside fruit, salads, etc. available at all times. The London food scene speaks for itself, and is, in my opinion, the best in the world by a strong margin. London's central geographic worldwide location alongside global population means the best of all cuisines can be found in London in an authentic fashion, and truly unique circumstance.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt quite integrated. In England, and to a lesser but noticeable degree in London, it does stand out if you are American versus European in a negative way relative to how a European may stand out in the United States. That being said, integration is all about effort. London is a massive city with endless possibilities; one can go to London and find what they are familiar and comfortable with, or can make an intent to adapt, understand the culture, and go outside their comfort zone. Yes, there may be some minor integration issues, but the vast majority of it depends on the individual in my opinion.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I never had an experience in this regard, although had friends who had no issue accessing and using the NHS.

London, like any big city, has its share of safety issues. Ultimately, cognizance is important, and certain areas of London are considered safer than others. Again, not unlike any other big city.

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

London is a big and expensive city. Budgeting is doable, but comes down to the individual. The beauty of being in a big city is that there are options for every budget, particularly as a student.

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• Dorm

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

• Location in London
• Student life and culture
• Global experience

• Student resources
• Dorm proximity to campus
• On-campus food options