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We sat down with Jaya, who took IR115: Culture and Globalisation, to hear about her experience of the course and why she would recommend it!

 

Why did you decide to attend LSE Summer School?

I wanted to spend my summer gaining a meaningful academic experience, and LSE Summer School presented the perfect opportunity. Being part of one of the world’s most prestigious universities, I knew that studying at LSE would provide an unparalleled academic challenge while allowing me to broaden my perspective on a global level. It also offered a chance to interact with students from diverse backgrounds, which was something I found particularly exciting.

Why did you choose your course?

I've always been fascinated by how culture operates across different societies, especially in an increasingly globalised world. The course IR115 aligned perfectly with my curiosity about how local cultures are influenced by and, in turn, influence global trends. I saw this course as an excellent way to dive deeper into these dynamics and challenge myself academically in a way that went beyond what I had previously studied. I wanted to engage with theoretical frameworks while also exploring real-world case studies.

Tell us about an average day as a student on your course.

An average day at LSE was a balance of intellectual engagement and personal exploration. Mornings typically began with discussions among peers during our seminars, where we would critically engage with the ideas from our lectures, sparking thoughtful debates and often leading to new perspectives. Lectures followed in the afternoons, where the professors expertly connected theoretical knowledge with amazing case studies. During my free time, I would head to the library, making the most of LSE’s vast array of academic resources to delve deeper into the topics we were studying, or to prepare for the next day’s discussions. I also attended a lot of Spark events, organised by the Summer School team, to build on my professional skills. Weekends provided the perfect opportunity to explore London, which enriched my overall experience.

What was your favourite part of your course?

The most enriching part of the course was exploring the multifaceted ways in which culture and globalisation intersect. It was truly eye-opening to see how cultural shifts occur at various levels - social, economic, and political - and how they reverberate across different parts of the world. The lectures introduced me to new perspectives and ideas that I hadn't previously considered, and I enjoyed the intellectual rigour involved in analysing them. Additionally, I greatly benefitted from the guidance we received on academic writing. The feedback was both constructive and detailed, which allowed me to significantly improve my ability to write more analytically.

What advice would you give to students considering your course?

My advice would be to immerse yourself fully in the learning experience. The course offers an incredible wealth of knowledge, and the professors are excellent at breaking down complex ideas into digestible and engaging discussions. I’d strongly recommend participating as much as possible - whether it’s in classroom debates, Spark events, or simply in conversations with fellow students. The opportunity to engage with such an intellectually stimulating community is rare, and by fully embracing it, you’ll enrich your academic journey significantly.

What are your short-term professional goals, and how does your course contribute to these goals?

In the short term, I am looking to collaborate on research projects and eventually write a thesis of my own. The course has contributed significantly to this goal by broadening my understanding of how culture operates beyond borders. It enhanced my research and critical thinking skills, both of which are crucial for my future projects.

What would be your top tip for future Summer School students?

Make the most of every opportunity that LSE Summer School offers. The professors are top-tier, and the resources at your disposal are world-class. Attend the Spark events, network with your peers, and don't hesitate to reach out to your professors for guidance or deeper discussions. Beyond the academic benefits, being part of the LSE community helps you to grow personally and intellectually. Engage actively in the lectures and discussions because this is the kind of environment where you can truly challenge yourself and refine your understanding.

How has your course helped you in your undergraduate degree/career plans?

As a sociology student, this course has given me a more nuanced understanding of cultural anthropology, particularly in relation to globalisation. It provided insights into various social phenomena, opening my eyes to topics and discussions that I hadn’t previously encountered. These new perspectives will be incredibly useful in my academic journey, especially as I continue to explore themes of culture, identity, and global interactions. The knowledge and skills I’ve gained will undoubtedly shape my future research.

How did you find the course and teaching experience at LSE?

The teaching experience at LSE exceeded my expectations. The professors are not only experts in their fields but also very approachable, which makes the learning process both rigorous and enjoyable. What stood out to me was the way in which they encouraged open dialogue and critical thinking. The course content was structured in such a way that even students who had no prior background in the subject could follow along, yet it was equally stimulating for those with more experience. Overall, the learning environment was one that encouraged intellectual curiosity and deep engagement.

What was your favourite part of studying at LSE?

One of my favourite aspects of studying at LSE was the dynamic nature of the learning experience. Every day was filled with opportunities to challenge myself - whether it was through the lectures, the lively discussions that followed, or the chance to collaborate with students from around the world. The diversity of perspectives in the classroom added a whole new layer to the discussions, and I found myself constantly thinking beyond the obvious, which expanded my intellectual horizons. Additionally, I loved how LSE’s structure allowed me to be both disciplined and flexible with my time, balancing academic rigour with personal growth.

 

This interview was written by one of our 2024 students, who are here to share their stories and help you understand the Summer School experience at LSE.