Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Eye opening, fun, and challenging August 12, 2025

By (Economics, Brandeis University) - abroad from 09/29/2025 to 06/20/2025 with

London School of Economics (LSE): London - General Course, Year-Long Study Abroad Programme

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Something specific was that I got into the fashion industry while abroad which was completely different from my major of Economics. I became a photographer for multiple fashion shows during London Fashion Week, and did some modeling. This was my favorite experience from studying abroad.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The classes are very academically rigorous, the grading is much harsher than in the USA.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The school’s website was very outdated, and they had IT issues with their website that significantly delayed parts of onboarding and administration for new students. I was unable to enroll in student societies for over 1 month due to this.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I stayed at LSE High Holborn, the location was fantastic and in the city center, the staff are very nice and accommodating, but the facilities were just ok. I would still highly recommend.

* Food:

British food is difficult to get used to, but there are loads of other foods to try.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I had a medical emergency that required surgery. The experience was very smooth, and I was able to get everything for free through the NHS. For emergencies the healthcare system worked great in my instance. However, I also had a long term medical condition that require weekly injections of an expensive medication. I ran out of medicine and went to my doctor about getting it over 6 months ago, and still have not received my medication through the NHS. If you receive prescription medication I recommend bring some from your home country and also talk to a doctor for prescriptions as soon as possible after landing.

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

I had some of the best professors, many of whom were leading experts in their field. I made lots of friends and connections, and it has been an amazing experience.

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

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

London is a very expensive city, if you cannot cook for yourself then it will be difficult.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 200
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? download student beans app

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Direct Enrollment

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Academic Rigor
  • Societies
  • International friends
* What could be improved?
  • Administrative process
  • Grading
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? The UK grading system is very different and sometimes confusing.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.