LSE’s Uggla Family Scholars Programme provides 10 scholarships to new undergraduate students every year, as well as mentorship and coaching opportunities to help students achieve their future aspirations. LSE student and Uggla Family Scholar Jia Ren talks about taking part in some of the mentoring opportunities available through the Programme.

…

For Uggla Family Scholars, the Wednesday workshops stand out as one of the most eagerly anticipated extracurricular activities. These workshops cover a diverse range of topics, from mental health and career advice to discussions on civil service. They play a vital role in our academic journey, offering opportunities for personal and professional development beyond traditional classroom learning.

A recent workshop, led by Professor Sam Friedman, explored the concept of social mobility – how individuals move up or down within society. We discussed how students from various societal backgrounds navigate their future careers, engaging in insightful conversations with Professor Friedman about societal movements and the different efforts needed from different classes and backgrounds to bridge the gap. This stimulating discussion encouraged us to reflect on societal classifications and share our perspectives. Despite our diverse backgrounds, we found unity in our appreciation for LSE’s inclusive culture, where everyone feels valued regardless of their origins or socioeconomic status.

The Uggla Family Scholars Programme epitomises this commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. By providing support to scholars from diverse backgrounds, the Programme ensures equal access to opportunities for success. Witnessing the dedication of the Programme’s organisers and the impact of their efforts on our academic and personal growth is truly inspiring.

One workshop, led by Tyy Christian, left a lasting impression on me. He shared invaluable insights on cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset, emphasising the importance of thinking like a leader and leveraging our networks to achieve our goals. His anecdotes about adding value to companies and his perspective as a Gen Z member in the future workforce were particularly engaging. This shift in perspective was incredibly motivating and encouraged me to approach challenges with confidence and creativity.

I am immensely grateful to Ikenna, the Uggla Family Scholars Programme Manager, for his tireless efforts in organising these workshops. His dedication ensures that we have access to valuable resources and opportunities for growth. As we eagerly anticipate future workshops, I am confident that the Uggla Family Scholars Programme will continue to empower us to make meaningful contributions to society.