Why education abroad helps in spreading the wings and widening the horizons

Three Indian students found a new meaning to education and explored the shifting dynamics of life at London School of Economics

Three Indian students studying in London School of Economics (LSE) speak on why education abroad helps in spreading the wings and widening the horizons.

The students Aditya Maharaja from Mumbai, studying MSc Human Resources and Organisations (Organisational Behaviour), Department of Management, Anahita Bordoloi from Mumbai, pursuing BSc International Relations, Department of International Relations and Tarunika Vyas from New Delhi studying BSc Environment and Development, Department of Geography and Environment discuss how studying at LSE change their perception of life and people around them:

What attracted you to LSE?

Anahita: LSE is one of the best universities in the world for anyone planning to have a degree in Social Sciences. It is cheaper than studying in the US, so this was the best pick. Also, I wanted to live in and experience a multicultural and metropolitan city like London.

Tarunika: LSE's world class faculty, strong academic inclination and high global reputation.

Aditya: The structure of my programme allows me to choose from other departments' courses, enabling me to combine my interests. My department provides us with the opportunity to work with companies to transfer what we have learned in the classroom into the real world.

What do you like the most about LSE?

Aditya: The people - the professors, researchers, alumni and my classmates. My classroom has students from over 40 countries and this diversity adds a different dimension to our seminars.

Tarunika: In my team, I rarely find two people from the same nationality. LSE's diversity allows me to interact with people from around the world.

Anahita: We are taught by leading professors and have opportunities to attend public lectures by eminent figures in economics and the social sciences.

What do you like about being a student in London?

Aditya: London is beautiful. It has everything for everyone. It is vibrant for students who want to learn beyond books.

Tarunika: There are plenty of libraries, bookstores, cafes, markets, music studios and clubs for you to choose from. London does not disappoint - it's dynamic and vibrant.

Anahita: I love how there is so much to do in London, and it is multicultural. There are so many cuisines to try, places to explore, and new experiences to be had, and the best part of it is that this can all be easily done on a student budget.

How was the transition of coming from India and settling in London and studying in the city?

Aditya: My transition process from India to the UK has been very smooth. LSE held a pre-departure event in Mumbai, where I met LSE alumni and spoke to them about life in London and studying at LSE.

Anahita: My transition was a little tough initially, because I found myself in a completely new environment. Soon you start enjoying the place as you start making friends. There is a large Indian community at LSE - I joined the India and Hindu Society, which made me feel at home.

Tarunika: The transition was difficult but being uprooted from home has never been easy for anyone. But the good news was -before you know it, strangers become friends, peers become family, and an unknown city becomes your home.

What kind of support is offered by LSE to adjust and learn better?

Tarunika: LSE provides a series of services for international students that range from scholarships to the health services. LSELIFE and Careers are also helpful, you can book appointments to improve your CV, speaking, writing or research skills.

Aditya: Due to personal circumstances, I was going to defer my admission but fortunately I did not have to do that because I received a scholarship of £10,000 from LSE's Graduate Support Scheme. There are so many societies to choose from depending on your interests, I am a part of the Consultancy Society which conducts interesting workshops and case competitions at regular intervals.

Anahita: I'm a part of the India Society, Grimshaw Club and the UN Society. They host career events, talks and conferences which are very interesting.

What are the plans for future, and how has LSE helped you to achieve your goals?

Anahita: I hope to work for an international organisation or for an NGO. I have been exposed to different careers and been able to network with leading professionals in the field. Thanks to societies; and as a recipient of the LSE Internship Fund, I receive financial support to complete an unpaid/voluntary internship at an NGO or charity.

Tarunika: LSE Careers and my department has been extremely helpful in allowing me to participate in career and networking events, company visits, etc. which gave me insight on what is available.

Aditya: LSE is helping me strengthen the foundations of my knowledge, which will help me in my future endeavours in the field of HR technology and people analytics.