Coming back from Reading Week and looking ahead to the end of the Autumn Term, you’re likely busy keeping up with lectures, formative assignments, and London’s lively energy as Christmas approaches. With so much happening, it’s easy to overlook the opportunities right here on campus. Here are three activities I’ve recently taken advantage of—free, educational, and conveniently located on campus!
#1 Build Academic Skills: LSE LIFE Workshops
As I started my formative essay assignments, I came across an email from LSE LIFE advertising some upcoming workshops on academic writing skills. The timing couldn’t have been better, so I promptly signed up for two sessions: How to Write Effective Arguments and How to Make Sense of Your Essay Question. These were both 1.5-hour sessions, and the instructors were helpful and willing to answer all our questions. We walked through the essay components LSE markers would be looking for and did some practice outlining essay responses. I ended the session feeling more equipped with the skills needed to tackle my essays. The instructors even gave us handouts with more guidance to refer to!
These sessions aren’t just for students who are struggling—they’re for anyone who wants to elevate their academic performance. Take advantage of this resource to develop skills that will serve you long after you graduate. I highly recommend subscribing to the LSE LIFE Weekly Update email blast so you don’t miss out on these sessions!
#2 Plan for the Future: LSE Careers
Balancing academic work with job hunting has been a learning experience. With an internship interview scheduled at short notice, I needed extra support to prepare. I looked on the LSE Careers website and saw that they offered meetings to practice interviews, so I scheduled one. They responded promptly and I met with a career consultant two days later.
In my half-hour session, we reviewed some common interview questions and practised answering them. The consultant gave me feedback on each of my answers and we worked together to refine my responses so that I left feeling more confident. From one-on-one career advice to CV workshops and networking events, LSE Careers offer tools to help you stand out in the competitive job market. Whether you’re exploring your options or already set on a path, this is a resource you don’t want to overlook. They also have plenty of professional development resources to recommend!
#3 Experience LSE culture through school and student-organised events: Romeo and Juliet Play
Finally, to end my week, I attended a Shakespearean play acted and directed by none other than LSE students! One of my friends here at LSE is a part of the Theatre Society and this week they held their first performance of the year – Romeo and Juliet (a classic!). I was eager to support my friend and engage with LSE’s vibrant student life scene so I bought tickets to see one of the shows. The show was suspenseful, emotional, and even, at certain points, amusing! The cast showed off their talents and I had a great time. Participating in student-organised events is a great opportunity to support your peers and connect with the LSE community in a meaningful way and I encourage you to take part in the different happenings around campus.
Beyond the classroom, the LSE offers a range of experiences to help you grow academically, professionally, and personally. Whether you’re looking for a creative escape, tools to sharpen your academic skills, or guidance to kick-start your career, there’s something here for everyone. Happy exploring!
