Life-Changing Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

As a General Course student, I was able to choose from a huge selection of courses available to all LSE students, the main restriction being the pre-requisites, and I had full access to the LSE library. The courses are year long and require a lot of outside work and reading, but taking the same course for two semesters was very rewarding because I got to study the material in depth, and enjoyed the familiarity of the professors and structure/schedule. Preparing for a cumulative final exam was challenging, but you are given the resources and time to do so. All in all, you really are treated as an LSE student (although your grading system is different) and as long as you're prepared to study on your own and keep up with the work, you have the chance to take really interesting classes with amazing professors.

On-site administration of your program

There is a very well organized program for General Course students that does an amazing job helping all the students coming for a year to get to know each other and also to integrate with the LSE community. The dean of the program is amazing, he held office hours during the shopping for classes period where he was very helpful in figuring out a schedule and what courses are right for you.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in LSE housing and I really enjoyed it. The dorm building was very central and about a 15 min walk through London to the university. I lived with a mix of LSE first-years, graduate students, and fellow General Course students. There were a few events (especially at the beginning of the year) for the dorm to meet other students from other dorms but also to get to know each other. It felt very safe (swipe card access to the building only) and allowed overnight guests.

I was not on a meal plan, so a lot of my meals were either on campus, off campus, or ones that I cooked for myself. I shared a kitchen (fully equipped) with about 6 other students that lived on my floor. There are also some dining options on campus including cafes, and a cafeteria style dining hall.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I had the same opportunity as all other LSE students to join clubs and sports teams which was a great way of getting to know other students (both local and international). Also living in central London and exploring the city (food, museums, different areas) and using the underground and bus system for an entire year really helped me feel like a local.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I didn't have any problem with health issues.

It felt very safe walking around. Just some advice, know where you are and where you are going: London is huge and there are many different areas. Especially going out at night, although it feels very safe, it is always good to be with a friend.

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

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• Dorm

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

• the people/London
• courses/professors

• nothing

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