LSE - Small Logo
LSE - Small Logo

Rhea Joseph

December 3rd, 2024

What my first term at LSE has taught me

2 comments

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

Rhea Joseph

December 3rd, 2024

What my first term at LSE has taught me

2 comments

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

Being at LSE has been a whirlwind of firsts for me. It’s my first time living abroad, my first time back in a classroom after over two years of working, and my first time sharing a flat with people from all over the world. I had to figure out how to schedule calls with family and friends across different time zones, and even adjust to the whole concept of daylight saving time—why does 5.00pm in winter feel like it’s cosplaying as midnight?

Here are some things that I’ve learnt from my first term at LSE.

 

The commute

Getting to university has been an adventure of its own! I usually take the bus, but it didn’t take long to realise that London buses have a personality of their own. During peak hours, like 9.00am or 10.00am, buses are often packed with school kids and professionals, and if they’re full, they simply won’t stop. After almost being late to my first few lectures, I learned that it’s best to plan ahead.

My accommodation is a 50-minute walk from campus, so on days when I have an early lecture and don’t feel like testing my luck with the buses, I just walk. It’s quite nice! The city is gorgeous in the mornings, and I’ve started to enjoy these walks as a way to soak in the sights. Pro tip: wear comfortable shoes—you’ll thank me later.

 

Money matters

Going back to being a student also meant going back to living on a tight student budget. And if you’re an international student, the constant habit of mentally converting pounds to your home currency is very real. At first, it was almost painful—like, “Wait, I just spent how much on this coffee?” But over time, I’ve learned to make peace with it while keeping a realistic mindset about my spending.

One thing I’ve noticed is that tapping your card is dangerously convenient. A quick tap, and poof—the money’s gone! But jokes aside, I knew I had to get serious about tracking my expenses.

After spending a few weeks here, I worked out a monthly budget. I plan for essentials like commuting and groceries, and I always leave some room for the little extras—a novel I’ve been eyeing or tickets to a play I don’t want to miss. This balance has helped me stop stressing about every pound I spend and focus on making the most of my time here.

 

Asking for help is not a weakness

One of the best things about being a student is how easy it is to meet people who are in the same boat as you—navigating a new city and new routines. I’ve made some incredible friends here who constantly inspire me, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: asking for help isn’t a weakness—it’s how you find your way.

I mentioned to a friend how much I missed certain snacks from my country, and they immediately told me where I could buy them. Now, once a month, I stock up on all my favourites, and it’s been such a comfort. Familiar food has this magical way of making you feel at home, even when you’re miles away.

 

Hitting the books

Studying at LSE is no walk in the park. Shocking? Probably not. But coming back to academia after a break has made it feel especially intense for me. Thankfully, being passionate about what I’m studying keeps me grounded.

What truly elevates the experience, though, is my cohort. It’s an incredible mix of people from all sorts of backgrounds, and their perspectives make every class discussion feel like an eye-opening journey. During Welcome Week, we were told to prepare for our assumptions to be challenged—and they weren’t kidding! Between readings, debates with peers, and the endless talks and lectures, I’m constantly learning to see the world through new lenses.

One thing I wish I’d discovered sooner? The workshops offered by LSE LIFE. They’ve been a lifesaver for everything, from academic writing and referencing to note-taking strategies. If I’d started using these resources earlier, I could’ve saved myself so much stress. Pro tip: don’t sleep on these workshops—they’re absolute game-changers for staying on top of your workload.

Studying at LSE pushes you, no doubt about it. But when you’re surrounded by inspiring people, engaging topics, and the right tools to help you along the way, it’s a challenge worth taking on.

About the author

Rhea Joseph

Hi, I'm Rhea from India, currently pursuing my second master’s degree at LSE in MSc Gender, Media, and Culture. I’m a passionate foodie (always on the hunt for my next favourite dish), a movie buff and a musical theatre enthusiast. My time in London so far has taught me to cherish the little things, like when the sun finally peeks through the clouds on those rare days—it feels like a little gift! I’ve come to appreciate simple joys, whether it’s soaking up the sunlight or sipping a cozy cup of coffee while watching the world go by. But let’s be real: when I’m not in class or catching up with friends, it’s a bit of a challenge to get me out of my comfy room. The only thing that can lure me out is the promise of a delicious meal and some great company. During my time at LSE, I’m eager to reignite my creative spark for poetry and painting while polishing my mind with fresh ideas and experiences.

Posted In: Student life | Student Life: Advice

2 Comments

Bad Behavior has blocked 1388 access attempts in the last 7 days.