It’s hard to believe that this time last year, I was applying to study abroad for a whole year in London at the renowned London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). I always knew that studying abroad was something I wanted to do as part of my university experience, but for a while, I hadn’t decided where to go. However, once I discovered the General Course programme, I knew that it was the one for me. Now, a year later, I’m sitting in the Marshall Building on LSE’s campus, preparing to attend an engaging lecture on Global Environmental Governance. I’ve also visited countries like Latvia and Estonia– places I never imagined I’d ever see. More importantly, I have met like-minded individuals who I am certain will remain my friends long after my programme concludes. We’ve already made plans to reunite in the future! Applying to this programme was not an easy decision, but it was one of the best decisions I’ve made for both my professional and personal development. Here’s why I chose to apply to the General Course:

Prior to the General Course, I had never been to London before, but it was love at first sight when I arrived. Growing up in Hong Kong, another international, metropolitan city, made me appreciate vibrant and diverse environment. When I left to attend university in Saratoga Springs, New York, a small college town, I realised I wanted to experience attending university in a big city at least once. London stood out to me as a world-class city with a rich cultural heritage that fosters cross-cultural exchange. With its famed museums, galleries, and parks, each borough has its own unique quality, offering plenty of things to see and do. Additionally, the city’s proximity to Europe would allow me to travel and experience different countries and cultures completely new to me. London is also an international hub for business, politics, and academia which promises a fulfilling year of discovery and exploration.

My academic journey at my home institution, Skidmore College, has been shaped by a multidisciplinary approach to Political Science and Business. As a result, I was drawn to the General Course at LSE because of its rigorous academic environment and global perspective. LSE’s Department of Government, with its emphasis on international politics and public policymaking, offered an unparalleled opportunity to expand my understanding of political systems. Not only that, as a General Course student, I would have the privilege of taking classes across different departments – an opportunity not available to most full-degree LSE students, who are restricted to their specific course of study. This meant I could take classes in departments like Management and Accounting, both subjects I was keen to explore. While applying, I often browsed the LSE course catalogue checking off all the classes that piqued my interest. I was certain this programme would both supplement and complement my studies at Skidmore, ultimately preparing me for a career in international business. It was clear that the General Course aligned seamlessly with my academic and professional interests.

As I explored the programme’s offerings, I learned I would be enrolled as an LSE student which enables me to have the same opportunities, courses, and resources as a full-degree LSE student. You even receive LSE Alumni status upon completion! Exposure to LSE’s esteemed faculty, student resources, and research appealed to me. The university also hosts numerous professional development and career events that I was eager to take advantage of. For example, just yesterday, I attended a skills seminar organised by the Careers Team on political risk and corporate investigations. This workshop was incredibly informative, and I appreciated the opportunity to network with other students who shared my interests.

Although the thought of spending a year living in a new city and studying in an unfamiliar environment took time to process, I recognised the value in studying abroad for a year as opposed to a single semester. This duration would allow me to fully immerse myself in both London and LSE’s academic and social environments. It was important to me that I would be able to establish roots and truly get to know my community rather than feeling like I was merely passing through for a few short months. Today, I often catch myself referring to London as “home.” Additionally, as an LSE student, I would have the chance to connect with LSE’s diverse, international student body through its many societies, clubs, and sports teams. My trip to Riga in Latvia, was organised by Itchy Feet, LSE’s backpacking society, and it was a memorable experience bonding with fellow students as we explored the Baltic state. Through the General Course social calendar and the programme’s eight weeks of vacation, I have found many chances to travel, meet other students, and form lifelong connections. Now, I can confidently say that this experience has exceeded my expectations.

I have grown tremendously from this experience and while leaving will be bittersweet, I am positive this won’t be my last time in London. I look forward to returning and I’m excited to apply the lessons and skills I’ve gained into my future pursuits. I am filled with immense gratitude for the opportunity to grow, learn, and contribute to LSE’s dynamic community and will look back on the year with fondness. If you’re thinking of studying abroad, I encourage you to consider and apply to the General Course!