91ÌÒÉ«

Congratulations! You’ve landed in one of the world’s most exciting cities and are about to dive into a whirlwind experience at 91ÌÒÉ« Summer School. I know you may feel excited and a little overwhelmed, especially since, in a typical study abroad experience, you’d have a whole semester to adjust. But here? With only three weeks per session, you’ll want to try and adjust within the first week.

However, there is no need to stress! Here are some valuable tips on surviving and thriving during your first week at 91ÌÒÉ«. Whether it’s your first time studying abroad or you’re a seasoned traveller, these tips can help you balance studying and exploring a beautiful city like London to make the most of your 91ÌÒÉ« Summer School experience - so let’s jump in!

1. Get to know your new home base: As soon as you arrive, take a walking tour of the 91ÌÒÉ« campus (offered on registration day), and explore nearby places like Holborn or Covent Garden. Also, find grocery stores and pharmacies near campus and where you are staying. This will help you in the future, as you won’t have to wander around to find what you need.
2. Become a pro at multitasking: Time can feel limited, so why not multitask? Do you have some reading to do, or an assignment due but want to explore the city? Then take your materials to a nearby park or grab a coffee at a cute local café if it rains!
3. Don’t over-commit in the first week: I know it’s tempting to say yes to every event and opportunity in your first week but pace yourself! Rest and recharge between all the new experiences so you’re not burning out before the second week begins. You will enjoy the programme more when you feel balanced and rested.
4. Remember your purpose: Whether you want this experience to be a cathartic journey, a learning experience, an opportunity to leave your comfort zone, or a chance to have a good time and meet amazing people (maybe a little of all of them!), always have in mind your purpose for being at Summer School, and that will allow you to attract people with the same interest as well as opportunities to live your experience to the fullest.
5. Go for it without overthinking!: I remember that on the first day, I was stressing about having someone to talk to since I saw that most people were with their friends. So, out of fear, I just went up to someone in the registration line and said hi! She ended up living at my 91ÌÒÉ« accommodation and we became friends quickly. That is the thing about 91ÌÒÉ«: everyone is open to making friends, so don’t think twice about saying hi or complimenting someone!
6. Prioritise networking and socialising: I can guarantee that at every event 91ÌÒÉ« Summer School hosts you will someone who wants to go with you. Forming friendships in the first week will help build a support system and allow you to adapt more quickly.
7. Get tech savvy: Download apps like Citymapper for public transport navigation, Google Maps for finding your way, or Revolut for money management. Pro tip: buy and carry a portable charger; believe me, apps like Google Maps consume your phone’s power quickly, so be prepared with your little power bank.

This blog was written by one of our 2024 Student Ambassadors, who are here to share their stories and help you understand the summer school experience at 91ÌÒÉ«.