What inspired you to travel abroad?
Since childhood, I had always been keen to go abroad, get an experience and learn the culture of a place like London. A city that is developed and technologically advanced seemed exciting!
I have always been interested in challenging myself in personal growth and development. To be able to embrace and bring about a change called for practical learning systems.
When I searched for universities and colleges in London that had short courses, I came across LSE. Having taken eco(h) during grad at the University of Delhi, I thought it’d be beneficial to get ADD ON experience in Indian learning systems.
Why did you choose The London School of Economics Summer School?
The academic facilities and infrastructure seemed to be amazing and understanding. It's one of the best institutes in the world, and it’s in London, a very developed place.
I chose EC260 Political Economy of Public Policy because it was in session two and an economics subject.
I also wanted to roam, and LSE offered me the opportunity to do so. In between attending seminars and classes I was able to see museums and many places to explore.
Twarita pictured below London’s famous clock tower, Big Ben.
What was your favorite part about London?
My favorite part was the lively and enthusiastic markets, which were dotted along my commute from Rosebery hostel to class.
I loved the punky streets with great hospitality and the governance of building styles.
There were endless places to roam, such as the London Eye, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Thames River–where the Harry Potter broom scene was shot!
I enjoyed the stalls and shopped regularly. Some of my favorite souvenirs are a tower bridge idol and a fun shirt.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
It was my first time going abroad to study on my own. Being able to handle the responsibilities while doing everything independently during my stay and classes felt thrilling.
I had a really wonderful introduction to the city, LSE, and my program.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
The local staff were the respected hostel reception mentors, warden, class guides, ambassadors, etc.
At each point, they were there to guide me on what steps ahead should be taken, and good ways to roam around the city. They were very welcoming and understanding–incredibly hospitable.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
I wish I had taken up another course for different sessions. That way, I could absorb London more while delving deeper into my time abroad.
Twarita at the British Museum Research Repository in London.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
Days generally consisted of classes (where breaks were allowed if needed), communicating with peers and teachers, time spent in the library for research, commuting on the metros or buses, coffee shops for hanging out, roaming the city and exploring markets, Rosebery Hostel in offtimes and to end the day.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
I enjoyed studying ahead for classes so I could have more time for talking with hostel mates from different countries. Any chance to learn and understand the culture more.
Exploring my program in its entirety, different places in London, and, of course, chilling with a coffee in hand before going to the library.
Also, I enjoyed the spirit and uniqueness of the markets there.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
The accommodation was Rosebery, one of the LSE residential halls.
What I liked best was the group that was there–I made good friends with many people from different places, including Spain and the States.
Morning greetings every day during breakfast, the pizza party on welcome day, and even the general ambiance from the plants and greenery to the TV room made for a wonderful experience.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
I would suggest knowing the metro map on a general level so that it's easy to travel easily once you get there. And, of course, the basics of planning transport when first arriving.
Joining FB groups of LSE summer school can be helpful to learn bits about your courses as well as meet others who will be in your courses.
Also, I would suggest, that making friends and getting along in the colors of culture.
Twarita at the SEA LIFE Aquarium London in London’s South Bank neighborhood.
Would you recommend The London School of Economics Summer School to others? Why?
Yes, I would recommend it. It's great exposure to foreign culture for first-time visitors and a practical way of learning multiple cultures due to London’s large population of people.
I learned both in and out of the classroom. Seeing firsthand what all the world sees is a good experience for anyone.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
The biggest benefits are personality development, exposure, and getting to roam, study, and delve into the culture abroad.
Getting to meet new people all around the world, gaining the confidence to manage the whole thing independently, and learning responsibility are very important.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
It has given me greater strength to be responsible and to share with my friends.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Being able to share my experiences through socials while exploring and roaming has been everything I’ve dreamt of, and it feels special. Learning and growing via travel has been empowering and vital to my development.
Traveling and studying is a great joy with lots of lessons and unforgettable experiences–do give it a go if you can!
