There is no denying that London is an expensive city. 3am tube charges, weekly grocery shops, and grabbing breakfast as you rush to class all seem like nothing until they add up and suddenly a third of your monthly budget is simply spent. Whilst the Uggla Family Scholars Programme undoubtedly provides generous financial support, student jobs can be hugely beneficial and rewarding.

But don’t worry, there is a solution! Student jobs are your best friend while you live in London. Not only are student jobs often higher paying (almost a £4 difference compared to off-campus jobs) but they also are highly flexible, allowing students to balance their studies and work effectively. 

So without further ado, here are a few student jobs available on LSE campus!

1. Student Blogger

The Student Blogger job is a perfect fit for students who are comfortable with their writing skills and are in search of a lower commitment role. Most Bloggers can write up to 4 blogs a month and are paid up to £35 per blog for 2 hours of work. Getting paid to reflect on and write about your own experiences – what more could you ask for?

2. Students’ Union Events Assistant

As an Events Assistant, students sign up with a zero-hour contract. This essentially means that students are not required to complete any hours per week according to their contract and that they can decide how much to work completely according to their convenience. Thus, this job is highly flexible. Not only this, but the job is extremely enjoyable as you get access to various Students’ Union events such as boat parties and guest talks for free! This job is perfect for students wanting to get to know more about what the SU does. 

3. Student Ambassador

The Student Ambassador job is quite a popular one on campus. The job can be competitive to be selected for, and it is open to first-years only. However, the great thing about this job is that if you are successfully appointed in your first year, you can automatically renew it for your remaining years at university. Additionally, this job is also a zero-hour contract role which ensures flexibility. Most Ambassadors find themselves delivering campus tours, participating in Q&A panels, working at Open Days, and much more! 

4. LSE Careers Assistant

The LSE Careers Assistant job is another highly flexible job available for students. This job is quite similar to the LSESU Events Assistant role. It is a zero-hour contract job in which students help to organise events related to LSE Careers. This job is a great opportunity for students to get early access to LSE Careers Events, and learn more about what goes on behind the scenes. 

These are just four jobs out of many available on the LSE campus. Alongside earning money, working on campus allows you to meet more people, gain work experience, and have new experiences while being on campus. All in all, given that most jobs on campus are flexible and pay higher than off-campus jobs, it would definitely not hurt to sign up!

The post Student Jobs as an Uggla Family Scholar first appeared on Students@LSE.

Applying for postgraduate study at LSE is an exciting step, but financing your degree is just as important as choosing the right programme. The LSE Excellence Scholarship offers a new opportunity to support high-achieving students.

What is the LSE Excellence Scholarship?

The LSE Excellence Scholarship is a prestigious award offered by LSE to exceptional postgraduate taught students joining in 2026. It recognises applicants with outstanding academic ability and strong potential to succeed in their chosen programme.

This scholarship provides £20,000 towards your studies. If you’re on a two-year programme, the value is split as £10,000 per year. Receiving this award can make a real financial difference, helping you focus more fully on learning and living in one of the world’s most dynamic academic cities.

Who is eligible for the LSE Excellence Scholarship?

To be considered for the LSE Excellence Scholarship, you must:

• Be applying for a Postgraduate Taught programme at LSE in 2026.
• Apply to a programme in eligible departments such as Health Policy, International Development, Sociology, Media and Communications, Mathematics, and others listed on the scholarship page.
• Be joining LSE for your first year if you’re enrolling in a Double Degree.

How and when do I apply?

Good news – you don’t need to submit a separate scholarship form. All applicants who apply for admission to an eligible postgraduate taught programme are automatically considered for the Excellence Scholarship during the application cycle. Awards are made on a rolling basis until funds are allocated. This means that achieving excellent academic results and submitting a strong application to your chosen programme increases your chances of being selected.

The deadline for applying to LSE in order to be considered for this scholarship is 23 April 2026.

Why this scholarship matters

LSE is known for its rigorous academic environment and global outlook but the financial investment can be significant, especially for international students or those relocating to London. A £20,000 scholarship can help cover tuition fees and ease the financial burden, allowing you to immerse yourself more fully in your studies and opportunities outside the classroom. To find out about more funding opportunities, read Gauri’s blog.

Final thoughts

If you are planning a postgraduate degree at LSE in 2026, the LSE Excellence Scholarship is well worth knowing about. It’s automatic and substantial, making it a fantastic opportunity for ambitious students. Read Ardila’s blog to find out about more LSE master’s scholarships and awards.

The post LSE Excellence Scholarship 2026: what you need to know first appeared on Students@LSE.

Six months into studying at LSE, I can say this with certainty: many of my expectations were wrong. Some were quietly dismantled. Others were shattered the moment I saw my first coffee receipt. Now that I’ve settled in, I can share what studying at LSE is really like for a student from Brazil.

Campus life

Before arriving, I was apprehensive about student life. LSE’s campus is in the heart of bustling and busy London and I wasn’t living in student halls. I assumed that might mean a more detached and impersonal experience.

Thankfully, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

The LSE Students’ Union has societies, clubs and events which bring students together. Some I’ve attended are parties, runs, pub nights, arts events and sports activities. In the compact and central London campus, there is a shared sense of belonging which makes it easy to feel part of the university.

What makes the biggest difference is the people. Conversations are engaging and flow naturally. This openness has shaped my experience far more than I expected.

One reality check, however, is coffee. It is very expensive, and a cup a day adds up quickly. For money saving tips and to find out about student discounts, read Ananya’s blog.

Why LSE felt right

I chose LSE for academic excellence, but also because of London itself. London has a strong Brazilian community and I already had Brazilian friends here. I also knew alumni who studied at LSE and looked back on it with real fondness.

I didn’t anticipate just how international the LSE community would be. While it’s comforting to have people from home around you, I have made friends from all over the world while studying here. Those conversations have broadened my perspective in ways no textbook could.

Academically, the environment is demanding. To me, that’s exactly the point: classes are challenging but worthwhile. Being surrounded by people operating at, and often beyond, your academic level naturally raises your own standards.

London through Brazilian eyes

One of the most striking differences between London and Brazil is safety. Being able to walk alone at night without fear is refreshing. It gives you freedom in a way that’s hard to explain until you experience it.

That sense of safety makes everyday life richer. You explore more, go to places an hour away just because you can. You try new cinemas, new restaurants and visit different neighbourhoods without overthinking it. You can discover all kinds of suggestions in blogs from LSE students on where to explore in London.

Pub culture also surprised me. No matter the day of the week, pubs are full, and there seems to be one on every corner. Find out about the historical pubs surrounding LSE in Marie’s blog. Travelling from London to other cities in Europe is also incredibly accessible. Cheap flights – £30 roundtrip if you look early – mean weekend trips across Europe are realistic.

Of course, life here is more expensive. Rent, food and transport can all add up quickly. Learning how to budget in pounds instead of reais has been an education in itself. But of course, it’s all part of the experience. Read Maya’s blog for tips on budgeting in London.

LSE’s scholarship for Brazilian students

Now that the School has announced a new scholarship for Brazilian students, studying at LSE is even more accessible. Through a partnership with Instituto Trajetórias, LSE is offering scholarships to taught master’s students. The LSE Graduate Funding Programme will provide financial packages and scholarships covering 30% of LSE tuition fees to beneficiaries.

LSE has committed over £1.2 million to support Brazilian students through this scholarship between 2026/27 and 2030/31 and at least 25 scholars will benefit from this initiative each year. The aims are financial support and to contribute to Brazil’s sustainable future. That is, investing in students who want to create an impact. As a Brazilian student, this commitment matters.

The post From Brazil to London: life as an LSE student first appeared on Students@LSE.

Constantly grey skies, early sunsets, non stop rain, shoes and socks that have been absolutely demolished during your walk to class, and the sheer lack of vitamin D in your system are just some key features of February in London. So, with weeks of such weather ahead, how does one realistically cope with the gloom? I have compiled a list of things that I believe have helped me cope better with the weather at this time of the year. Below are my ten tips for others who are struggling in this weather. 

1. Buy good waterproof shoes. Walking around with wet feet would make anyone’s day worse!
2. Buy Vitamin D supplements. Vitamin D helps to boost your mood and energy levels in the absence of sunshine!
3. Sit in the sun whatever chance you get throughout the week (yes, even if that means taking a break from “locking in” at the library for a bit!)
4. Make weekly plans with your friends to have something to look forward to.
5. Buy a strong and good quality umbrella that can withstand London wind and rain. If you’re having a bad day, the last thing you need is your umbrella breaking when you’re 20 minutes from home in the pouring rain!
6. Try waking up and hour or two earlier than usual to experience more daylight, so your day feels longer.
7. Sign up to attend fun events happening on campus (a little bracelet making can really help brighten your day, trust me).
8. Don’t force yourself to go out if the weather is really bad. Sometimes a cosy day in can make you feel better!
9. Visit museums, exhibitions, and other indoor activities in London to still experience new things
10. Try switching up your usual study spots by studying in a cafe with a cute view to help boost your motivation to study.

I will give our readers two more bonus tips: watch movies and listen to music that has a strong summer vibe, as it helps us remember that summer is actually not as far as it seems. Lastly, I would urge our readers to appreciate the present as, although looking forward to things is always helpful and sometimes even necessary, you don’t want to skip over your present time anticipating the future. Although February is cold, wet and even muddy, it still has its perks, like term not being as stressful just yet and it allowing us to have more lazy days in. If those are not solid reasons not to hate February, then I don’t know what are!

Best of luck!

The post How to survive gloomy February in London first appeared on Students@LSE.

Applying to LSE as an international student involves several important steps, and one of the most significant is meeting the English language requirements. While this part of the application process can feel intimidating at first, understanding how the requirement works and preparing strategically can make it far more manageable.

Understanding LSE’s English language requirements

LSE accepts a range of English language tests, including IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, Pearson PTE Academic, and Cambridge English qualifications. Each programme has a specified English language requirement level, which reflects the academic demands of the degree. Some programmes require a higher overall score or place particular emphasis on components such as writing, given the importance of essays, exams, and critical analysis at postgraduate level.

It is essential to check the specific requirement for your chosen programme early on, as expectations can vary across departments. English language test results must be less than two years old by 1 October in the year you intend to start your programme, so plan your test dates carefully.

If you have not yet taken an English language test at the time of application, your application can still be considered. However, any offer you receive will be conditional on achieving the required score before the programme begins. Being aware of this early on can help reduce pressure while still allowing enough time to prepare and sit the test.

Choosing the right English language test for you

Choosing the most suitable English language test depends on your personal strengths and preferences. Some students prefer IELTS for its familiar format and clear structure, while others find TOEFL more comfortable due to its fully computer-based approach. If academic writing is a particular strength, certain tests may allow you to demonstrate this more effectively.

Before committing to a test, it can be helpful to review sample questions or complete short practice sections from different providers. This helps you understand the format, timing, and skills assessed, and choose the option that best suits your learning style. If you are preparing to take the TOEFL, Aishwarya’s blog offers useful tips on how to approach the test with confidence.

Structuring your preparation

Preparing for an English language test alongside university applications requires organisation and consistency. I found that creating a realistic study plan, with regular but manageable practice sessions, was far more effective than intensive last-minute revision.

Reading academic articles, policy briefs, or opinion pieces helped strengthen reading comprehension and expand academic vocabulary, while also building familiarity with the type of material commonly used in LSE courses. For writing, practising timed essays and focusing on clarity, structure, and argumentation was particularly helpful. Seeking feedback, whether from a tutor, peer, or reliable online resource, can also help identify recurring weaknesses. For further advice on how to meet LSE’s English language requirements, read Rhea’s blog.

Developing skills beyond the English language test

One of the most valuable mindset shifts was viewing English test preparation as training for postgraduate study itself. LSE programmes place strong emphasis on critical reading, structured writing, and clear communication. The skills developed for the English language test, particularly in writing and listening, translate directly into seminar discussions, coursework, and exams.

Listening practice does not have to be limited to test materials. Podcasts, academic lectures, and recorded talks related to your field of interest can help improve comprehension while also building confidence in engaging with complex ideas in English. This kind of exposure makes the transition into an English-speaking academic environment much smoother.

Timing and practical considerations

Booking your test well in advance is strongly recommended, particularly during peak application periods when availability can be limited. Leaving enough time to retake the test if necessary provides reassurance and flexibility. It is also important to ensure that your test provider sends results directly to LSE where required, as this forms part of the official verification process.

For students who narrowly miss the required score, LSE may, in some cases, offer alternative pathways such as pre-sessional English courses. Understanding these options early can help you plan realistically.

Final reflections

For prospective students, my advice on meeting the English language requirement would be to start early, choose the test that suits you best, and approach preparation as an investment in your future at LSE.

The post What to know about LSE’s English language requirements for postgraduates first appeared on Students@LSE.

If you’re applying to certain postgraduate programmes at LSE, you may be asked to submit a GRE or GMAT score. These are standardised admissions tests designed to assess quantitative reasoning, analytical skills and, in some cases, verbal ability. For someone completely new to them, they can sound overwhelming. But they don’t have to be. Read on to find out my advice when it comes to preparing for the GRE or GMAT and if you want to hear an LSE student’s perspective.

At LSE, GRE or GMAT scores are not just a formality for some programmes. In many cases, they’re an opportunity to strengthen your application, especially if your academic background doesn’t fully reflect your quantitative skills on paper. The test gives departments a common reference point to compare applicants coming from very different universities and education systems. Thinking about it this way helped me reframe the exam as part of the story I was telling through my application, rather than something to fear.

Choosing between GRE and GMAT

If your programme accepts both tests, choosing the right one really does matter.

In broad terms, the GRE tends to suit students coming from economics, social sciences or more academic backgrounds. Its structure is more flexible and less time-pressured. You can skip questions, return to them and manage your time in a way that feels more forgiving.

The GMAT is more common for management, finance and business-focused programmes. It is shorter but more intense, and its adaptive format means each question depends on how you answered the previous one. Some people thrive under that pressure. Others find it stressful.

There’s also a practical factor: cost. For international applicants, the GMAT is usually more expensive than the GRE. When you add potential retakes and preparation materials, that difference can matter. In my case, knowing I might need more than one attempt made the GRE a more financially manageable option.

If you’re unsure, it’s worth reading other students’ experiences, such as this blog with top tips for GRE/GMAT preparation, or this guide on how to strategise your GRE/GMAT prep. A simple rule of thumb is this: if you enjoy solving problems under tight time pressure, the GMAT may suit you well. If you prefer flexibility and pacing yourself, the GRE can be a very sensible option.

Give yourself more time than you think you need

One of the biggest mistakes I see is underestimating preparation time. Even strong students usually need eight to twelve weeks of consistent preparation.

This doesn’t mean studying all day. What worked for me was keeping it realistic and sustainable. I never studied during weekends because it made me feel constantly behind. Instead, I built preparation into my weekday mornings, before classes or work, when my mind was fresh and it didn’t feel like the exam was taking over my life.

Starting early also gives you a safety net. If your first mock test doesn’t go well, you still have time to adjust your strategy or book a retake if needed. Most importantly, it allows you to find a routine that works for you.

Practice really is everything

These exams are as much about strategy as they are about knowledge. And strategy only comes from practice.

Learning when to move on from a question is just as important as knowing how to solve it. Perfectionism can be costly under time pressure. Sometimes, skipping a difficult question and protecting your time is the smartest decision you can make.

For me, full-length practice tests under timed conditions were by far the most useful part of my preparation. They helped me understand the rhythm of the exam and reduce anxiety on the real test day. Once the format feels familiar, the test becomes far less intimidating.

If you’re looking for more focused exam advice, you might find this post on five tips to ace the GRE helpful too.

It’s also worth remembering that these are long exams. The GRE can last close to four hours, and the GMAT, while shorter, is still intense. Building mental stamina matters. Sleeping well, staying hydrated and practising in realistic conditions make a real difference.

Be honest about your weak spots

It’s tempting to revise what you’re already good at. I did that at first. It felt productive, but it wasn’t.

The real gains came when I focused on my weakest sections, even when that felt uncomfortable. Identifying patterns in your mistakes is incredibly valuable. Are you rushing? Misreading questions? Running out of time? Once you know your habits, you can work around them.

Finally, remember the bigger picture

A GRE or GMAT score can strengthen your application, but it doesn’t define you. Admissions decisions are holistic. Your academic background, personal statement, references and motivation all matter.

If you’re preparing for one of these tests, be patient with yourself. Progress is rarely linear, and that’s completely normal. And once it’s done, you’ll realise something important: the process teaches you discipline, resilience and focus. Skills you’ll definitely need at LSE and beyond.

The post Preparing for the GRE or GMAT from an LSE student’s perspective first appeared on Students@LSE.

Application season is tough. So many universities to apply to, having to perfect a personal statement and then on top of it all, having to write scholarship essays and filing out technical forms. 

Getting an undergraduate scholarship in the UK is very competitive and rare compared to other countries like the USA, for example. Thus, in order to give yourself a solid chance at being considered, it is important to make sure you avoid some mistakes that are commonly made by students, usually due to lack of information.

So, today, I decided to write this article, as someone who was lucky enough to secure a scholarship at LSE through the Uggla Family Scholars Programme, in the hopes that I could benefit someone overwhelmed by the process. Let’s get into it! 

1. Don’t lie in your scholarship essay

Applicants sometimes feel that their stories are not interesting enough, and are therefore tempted to alter, embellish, or simply invent stories about their personal experiences. I would never advise anyone to do this. Firstly, because it is unethical, of course, but secondly, because scholarship managers and admissions teams have read enough essays to be able to discern whether a student is being truthful about their story or not. Thus, it is better to be authentic and to put your story out there truthfully, as that will definitely increase your chances of being selected. 

2. Don’t replicate your personal statement

Sometimes people think of being vulnerable as “cringe” or too much. However, the thing that sets your scholarship essay apart from your personal statement is being vulnerable. Personal statements are purely academic in nature. If you are asked to write a scholarship essay in addition to your personal statement, the reader is expecting something less academic and something more emotional. Thus, it is important for students to reflect on their lived experiences that they think define who they are as people and write about those. 

3. Don’t forget to elaborate on your strengths

When people read the tip mentioned above, they often make the mistake of turning their whole essay into a description of the difficult experiences they have had growing up. While a good amount of space should be allocated to discussing those experiences, it is important to understand that you need to convey to the reader that these experiences don’t define you but rather your resilience, strength and determination do. Thus, make sure that in your essay you dedicate a significant chunk towards highlighting how these experiences have helped you become an even stronger person!

4. Take the time to complete the form accurately

This sounds basic, but is one of the sections that people are most likely to make mistakes in. When you fill out your form, especially in the sections where you state your finances, make sure you triple check every single number and detail. Also make sure you attach any necessary documents that are completely accurate and unaltered.

5. Put in the effort, even if you’re not sure of your chances

This tip is definitely more psychological! Many times when I have talked to people and asked them if they applied for scholarships, they say they either didn’t apply at all, or they put in minimal effort as they believed they were not going to be successful anyway. This is the biggest mistake you can make, as it sets you up for failure which is much worse than the initial chance even if slim. So, my number one advice to students would be to give it your best shot and leave the rest to the universe!

The post 5 mistakes not to make in your scholarship application first appeared on Students@LSE.

What’s it like studying BSc Finance at LSE? That was something I always wondered when I applied for my bachelor’s degree. Now, being a first-year Finance student at LSE, I can share my experience with you. Hopefully, this will give you a better understanding of what learning is like here.

This is a typical day in my life on the programme: 

7.30am: As the saying goes, “the early bird catches the worm”

I wake up early to get prepared for my lectures. After getting dressed and having breakfast (which often consists of a bagel bought the night before), I spend time reading the news and looking at market updates.

Skimming over my timetable, I make a mental note of the content covered in previous lectures to jog my memory and preview the lecture slides. I highly recommend doing this because it helps you understand the content better, making it easier to follow the lecture and remain engaged. There’s the bonus of being able to ask specific questions about the content during the lecture, which helps clarify any confusion. 

9.30am: Head off to campus

As I live in student accommodation, walking is a viable option: it fits nicely with my routine and helps me get some exercise. I often walk as I enjoy taking the time to look at scenery and clear my head – there are multiple paths to get to the School, but if I am running late, I bike or take the train over. Biking is really convenient in London. There are multiple rental bike apps and dedicated lanes for cyclists, making it easy and effective to travel. Read Jia’s blog to find out about cycling and other transport options around London.

10.00am: Arrive for a three-hour finance lecture in The Marshall Building

A three-hour lecture may seem daunting but there are five-to-ten-minute breaks between each hour for us to take a breather, relax, and catch up with friends! Additionally, as our BSc Finance courses don’t have separate classes, professors are very interactive and receptive during these sessions. We’re encouraged to ask questions whenever we don’t understand the material, and seek clarification afterwards during office hours. I really like this method of learning as it keeps me engaged and allows me to thoroughly understand the content. 

1.00pm: Lunchtime on campus

After the lecture, I often have lunch together with a few friends from my cohort, which is a nice way to catch up after a long class. There are a lot of great places to eat on campus, but as I prefer to have a hot meal (especially now that we’re in winter), I often head to the Old Building’s Fourth Floor Restaurant, which offers hot food from a variety of different cuisines. LSE Garrick is also a great place to try – the chicken katsu curry is delicious! Have a look at Anwesha’s blog for recommended spots to eat on and around LSE campus!

As we’re located in the centre of London, there are also a lot of food options available outside campus, including Lebanese, Chinese, Japanese, and Italian cuisine. I haven’t explored all of the eateries yet, so I’m looking forward to trying more of them out. Why not get started with Ramesh’s guide to the greatest restaurants around LSE campus?

2.30pm: Assignments and prepping for classes

My schedule varies depending on whether I have an afternoon lecture or not. If I do, then I’ll usually spend some time preparing for it by reviewing the material or going over any notes. If not, then I’ll head to the Library and use that time to study or complete assignments. 

5.00pm: Social events

Depending on the day, our department may host some events, ranging from weekly Thursday hangouts to trivia nights, or even ice skating. These social events are a great way to unwind, as well as meet our seniors and other people from our department. The atmosphere is really lively, with pizza, drinks, and the sound of peers laughing and chatting in the background. It really helps me enjoy the social side of university life. 

8.00pm: Head back to student halls

Once my day is done I head back to my student accommodation. I may get some food from the cafeteria downstairs before taking a shower and getting ready for bed.

I’m very glad to be part of the Department of Finance at LSE. Although the days can be busy, the effort is definitely worth it. I’m in a place where I can improve my academic knowledge, build connections with peers, and most importantly, enjoy my experience of studying in London.

The post Day in the life of a Finance student at LSE first appeared on Students@LSE.

The best thing about being a final year undergraduate on the BA History programme at LSE is definitely the freedom and flexibility to organise and manage your time, on your own terms. This year, all of my seminars are coincidentally back to back on a Thursday, leaving me with the rest of the week free to spend as I please. In case you also find yourself with lots of ‘days off’ from teaching, read on for some ideas on how best to spend them!

Office hours – keeping in touch outside of seminars

I am doing the Level 5 French course this year which means having only one two-hour seminar a week as timetabled teaching, giving me the independence to structure my learning and work on coursework at my own pace. This doesn’t mean not asking for help – scheduling office hours with my teacher on a semi-regular basis to discuss coursework, get feedback and learn more about advancing my language skills is a great way for me to get ahead on a day off. Last week, for example, it was incredibly helpful to get constructive feedback on my plan and thesis for this module’s research project, so definitely make the most of contact hours with your professors!

Eating on LSE campus – a few options to explore

After a busy morning of getting through readings and seminars, the only thing on my mind is what I’m having for lunch. Fortunately, there’s plenty of options on and off campus for all tastes! If you’re all about meal prep, over the past year LSE has significantly increased the amount of microwaves on campus which means less queuing on your lunch break!

For those of us who might be less organised, there are plenty of cafés on campus for a quick bite. My personal favourite is the Beaver’s Brew Café in Marshall Building – from fresh salads and sandwiches to a daily hot lunch spread, there’s something for everyone. For a more detailed guide on eating in and around campus, check out this blog – New to LSE campus? Here’s where to eat.

The best study spots

After a relaxing lunch break, it’s time to find a quiet spot on campus to get stuck in and continue working. My favourite spots are the dedicated study areas on the first and second floors of the Marshall Building – if I can grab a seat in time! The Library is always a reliable destination otherwise – from open-plan booths for a group study session, to individual seats and quiet areas on the fourth floor, any study preference is catered to. For more information on the best study spots and hidden gems across campus, check out this blog – Beginner’s guide to LSE campus: where to study and socialise.

If campus feels too busy, I love sitting down in a café nearby to get some work done with a hot drink. Last week, I tried a new spot near Holborn – Ediné. With a mouth-watering selection of pastries and fresh bakes, as well as lovely Korean matcha and a selection of incredible espressos, this was a great spot for the afternoon study session. If that hasn’t already convinced you, their 15% student discount for drinks surely will!

Having fun with friends after a long day

Having spent the whole day busy with work and getting ahead, seeing some friends is the perfect way for me to wind down and take my mind off academics. We start with dinner at Viet Eat – a great and affordable spot near campus serving up delicious Vietnamese food at student-friendly prices. If you’re a fan of Vietnamese food, check out Thu Huong’s blog for more suggestions.

It was a Wednesday, so as most of you will be aware, everyone’s looking forward to and getting ready for the Sway sports night. Now that I’m in my final year, my stamina for mid-week clubbing has definitely decreased, but spending time with my friends at the pub and catching up is always something I look forward to. If the Shakespeare’s Head is too crowded for your group, check out the Penderel’s Oak just around the corner!

Now that you have some ideas on how to get the most out of your days off at LSE, I hope this blog helps you organise and structure your time better. Just remember to keep a good balance between working and having fun, so that you don’t burn out.

The post Day in the life: A final year BA History student first appeared on Students@LSE.

Meet Emma! A first-year LLB Law student and recipient of the Uggla Family Scholars Programme, Emma joined LSE in September 2025. We asked her a few questions about her journey to LSE and her experience as a Canadian in London so far.

How did you first hear about LSE?

I first heard about LSE through my Geography teacher. Hearing about a social science specialist university really piqued my interest, so I decided to follow up with some research. I obviously liked what I saw, so I decided to apply!

What made you decide to study Law?

I’m definitely not someone who has a five-year plan mapped out. I’d actually planned to apply for Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE). I only decided on Law a month before I was due to start writing my personal statement. I was drawn to PPE because of the interdisciplinary nature of the degree, so I would say Law attracted me for the same reason. The degree is super flexible and spans across so many fields. I also appreciate how it can be very abstract and philosophical, but still quite logical.

Did you have any worries or concerns before moving to London?

Affordability was frankly the biggest one. It’s not easy budgeting rent, food, travel, and other expenses as a student. London is a notoriously expensive city, and it’s only getting more expensive (the recent TfL fare increase…)! I’m incredibly grateful to have been selected for the Uggla Family Scholars Programme. I receive a generous maintenance stipend and my full tuition fees covered as an overseas student, which alleviated my concerns. Aside from that, I was thrown off about London’s climate, and being so far from home. Though I can’t say I’ve completely adjusted to the grey, and I’m definitely homesick sometimes, through good friendships and new memories I’ve come to really enjoy being here.

Had you heard about the Uggla Family Scholars Programme before you applied?

Yes, I had! I decided to pick LSE as my firm university choice in light of the Programme. Scholarships were important to me as an overseas student, so I compared the range of opportunities across the universities I held offers from. As the most generous undergraduate scholarship offered in the UK, the Uggla Family Scholars Programme stood out. And of course, being Canadian, I had an advantage as the Programme has a preference for one overseas Scholar to be from Canada.

How was your experience moving from Toronto to London?

I made the move on my own, lugging four suitcases across two very large, international airports. I had a red-eye flight that I unfortunately did not get any sleep on, and I ended up sleeping in the airport upon my arrival in London – I would not recommend! Moving into Bankside House was hectic, but everyone was eager to meet each other. So many people offered to help me move in, which I really appreciated. I would advise future students to arrive well-rested!

How did you find your first term at LSE?

So many new experiences! From new subjects, to new people, to new places, it was very exciting, but I can see how it would be overwhelming. I personally love being thrown into an environment where just about everything is unknown to me, so I found my first term at LSE to be fun. However, as the saying goes, “work hard, play hard”. I had a fair share of essays to write, and a hefty stack of weekly readings.

What else have you done outside of your course?

I’ve been trying to make the most out of being in a new city, especially one as renowned as London. A highlight has been exploring different areas of the city. I recently went to Hampstead Heath with a friend, and I was able to get a spectacular viewpoint of the city. I’ve also ‘played tourist’, visiting some of London’s major attractions, and being in disbelief that this is my home for the next three years!

How have you found being part of the Uggla Family Scholars Programme?

A truly one-of-a-kind experience. I’ve been able to find a community while receiving bespoke mentorship, financial support, and social opportunities including invites to the theatre! I’ve made so many great friends on the Scholars Programme, and it’s a delight to see Scholars from other years at our regular workshops. The Scholars are lovely, and everyone on the Programme is keen to support me as I’m navigating university life.

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