For most first-year students, LSE100 can initially feel both confusing and exciting. As LSE’s flagship interdisciplinary programme, it offers a unique opportunity to step outside your primary field of study and engage with peers from different disciplines. This creates a rich exchange of ideas, as students from various backgrounds come together to discuss and debate thought-provoking topics.
In my first year, I chose the theme “How Can We Create a Fair Society”? This module explored the concept of fairness in-depth, and what stood out to me was the diversity of perspectives in the classroom. My peers came from different countries and educational backgrounds, which influenced how they approached the idea of fairness. This diversity of thought was one of the most engaging aspects of the course. It wasn’t just about learning facts or theories, but about understanding how different life experiences shape views on fairness. To me, this reflects the essence of LSE’s motto, “to know the causes of things”. LSE100 provides an interdisciplinary and intercultural platform where there are no right or wrong answers—only the confidence to express and defend your views.
I selected the theme “How Can We Create a Fair Society”? because growing up, I witnessed inequality first-hand. In my home country, I saw how different ethnicities were treated unequally despite their hard work and I wanted to understand why such injustices persist in the 21st century. Through LSE100, I gained insights into the political, social, and economic structures that sustain inequality, which helped me make sense of these issues.
LSE100 also equipped me with valuable transferable skills that I now use in many areas of my life. From presentation and interpersonal skills to critical thinking and conflict resolution, the course helped me navigate discussions with people who hold vastly different views. These skills proved particularly useful in job interviews, where I applied what I had learned to reconcile diverse perspectives and present coherent solutions. The ability to integrate differing viewpoints while remaining focused on a common goal has been essential in both my academic and professional journey.
LSE100 inspired me to delve deeper into local issues and society through an internship in journalism. I applied the curiosity and research methods I developed in the course to explore and answer the questions I had about inequality, bringing my understanding full circle in a professional context.
In conclusion, LSE100 is an invaluable experience unique to LSE students. It broadens your horizons beyond your chosen field of study and nurtures a curiosity about the world around you. The skills I gained during the course will stay with me as I continue my academic and professional journey, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of it.
