Studying abroad at the London School of Economics has been one of the most challenging—and rewarding—experiences of my academic life. I knew LSE would feel different from Pitt, especially because almost the entirety of your grade rests on the final exam. That structure forces you to take responsibility for your own learning, and staying on top of material throughout the term is imperative. My courses push me in ways I’ve never experienced before, and while I’m often overwhelmed, I’m also genuinely excited by how much I’m learning. One of the most eye-opening parts of the experience has been my History of Economics course. It assumes a level of prior knowledge that initially felt intimidating, but once I understood what the course demanded, I began learning not just from lectures but from my peers as well. Being surrounded by students who care deeply about my topics of study, who debate economic theory over dinner or help talk through an econometrics problem after class, is very motivating.
What has made the difficult moments manageable are the friends I’ve made here. Within my first week, I met my flatmates: an economics student from Russia, a law student from France, and a social policy student from England. Getting to live and learn alongside people from all over the world is something I never would have had without coming to LSE. Beyond my flat, students in the General Course have become some of my closest friends. From late-night study sessions in High Holborn to dessert runs to Fresko Frozen Yogurt, these friendships have quickly become the heart of my experience. Since we are all figuring out this life in London together, the shared chaos has bonded us faster than I ever expected.
Outside academics, life in London has been an adjustment yet so exciting. Having lived in the same hometown my entire life, it feels refreshing to experience life in a new city. I love wandering through the shops of Covent Garden, jogging in Regent’s Park, or discovering a new cafe to work in. Even on the hardest days, the city reminds me why I chose this path. LSE is intense, but it’s also thrilling—and with every week that passes, I’m more grateful I took this leap.
