A Symphony of Growth: Reflecting on My Time as a UCL Student

By UCL Faculty of Arts & Humanities, on 13 December 2024

UCL International Social and Political Studies (ISPS) fourth year student Chun-Yi (Leo) Chen reflects on his time at UCL. 

“The end of a melody is not its goal: but nonetheless, had the melody not reached its end it would not have reached its goal either. A parable.” – Friedrich Nietzsche 

On the precipice of graduation, I find myself reflecting on the unique composition that has been my journey at UCL. From the unexpected virtual prelude to the transformative movements of my year abroad and final year on campus, my time at UCL has been a symphony of resilience, growth, and connection. 

The opening notes of my UCL melody were struck in the midst of a global pandemic. As I began my studies in ISPS from the confines of my home country, I feared that the physical distance would create a dissonance in my university experience. UCL’s unwavering support and commitment to fostering connection quickly resolved any tensions. Through virtual ensembles of interactive online sessions, group projects, and regular tutor check-ins, I found myself harmonising with my peers and professors, creating a sense of unity despite the distance. 

As the melody of my journey progressed to my year abroad at Waseda University in Japan. This movement introduced new themes and variations, enriching my composition with invaluable cultural insights and experiences. Despite being geographically farther from UCL, the consistent communication and support from my home university ensured that I never felt disconnected from my academic journey. 

Returning to UCL for my final year was a crescendo of excitement and anticipation. Stepping into the main quad and gazed upon the iconic portico, I felt a rush of emotion, a powerful realisation that I had finally arrived at my other home. The familiar campus and warm welcome from faculty and peers served as a resonant confirmation that UCL had been with me every step of the way, guiding and shaping my melody. 

As an ISPS student, I found myself part of a tight-knit ensemble within the grand orchestra of UCL. The intimate nature of our department allowed for personalised attention, fostering meaningful relationships with tutors and peers. Yet, the beauty of UCL lies in its ability to bring together diverse instruments from various departments, creating a rich atmosphere of cross-disciplinary collaborations and university-wide events.  

Approaching the final cadence of my UCL symphony, I am filled with gratitude for the resilience and adaptability that this journey has instilled in me. Each challenge, each unexpected note, has contributed to the unique composition of my growth. I now understand that the goal of my UCL journey was not simply to reach the end, but to embrace every measure, every phrase, and every rest along the way. The COVID-19 pandemic may have altered the melody, but the lessons, experiences, and connections I have gathered are the true essence of my symphony, shaping me into the person I am today. 

As the final notes of my UCL melody resonate, I am proud to be part of a community that nurtures resilience, inclusivity, and a lifelong passion for learning. And though this particular movement may be coming to a close, I know that the skills and memories I have gained will continue to inspire and guide me as I embark on the next chapter of my life’s composition. 

Find out more about UCL International Social and Political Studies (ISPS)

Why do a PhD in the Humanities and Social Sciences?

By UCL Faculty of Arts & Humanities, on 13 November 2024

Mie Astrup Jensen was awarded her PhD in Gender & Sexuality Studies and Hebrew & Jewish Studies during the summer of 2024. She now works as a Senior Researcher at the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen).

I joined UCL in 2020 after I had completed an MA in Sociology and an MRes in Social Research at the University of Aberdeen. My ESRC-funded PhD was in Gender & Sexuality Studies and Hebrew & Jewish Studies (departments of SELCS-CMII and HJS), where I conducted a qualitative study with 40 queer Jewish women on their lived experiences and practices.

Why do social research?

I have for most of my life been interested in society, culture, lived experiences, and social behaviour. I am very fascinated by the relationships between the social and the personal – for example, how social norms influence how people view themselves. Social research seeks to understand the often complex and nuanced ways people live their lives.

During my undergraduate degree, I became interested in the intersection of religion, sexuality, and gender, which is an area that is under-researched. This intensified during my master’s degree, where I, among other things, interviewed progressive rabbis on making synagogues LGBTQ+ friendly. This laid the foundation to my PhD research.

Social research has the potential to influence lives in so many ways. This includes presenting under-examined lived experiences to difference audiences, working with communities, and engaging with policy changes.

How I got into my PhD programme

• Research proposal. Start your background reading, identify a literature gap, think about your research methods and the value of your topic. This document will not be perfect the first time – you will probably write many drafts and your supervisors will help you!
• Identify the university and departments. I created a list of universities that I was interested in. Then, I checked these universities’ departments and went through the staff list to read about the staff members’ specialities. This was especially important because my research topic was very niche.
• Contact the graduate tutors. I sent the graduate tutors of my two departments (SELCS-CMII and HJS) my CV and my draft research proposal. We discussed the programme, and they helped me identify and connect with my supervisors.
• Apply for the programme and funding. Finalise your research proposal and apply for the programme. Identify with your supervisors and programme directors funding that you are eligible for and submit your funding applications.

Helpful tips: be open to suggestions (your supervisors will be experts in your field) and start the process in good time.

Experiences of doing a PhD in the humanities and social sciences

A PhD is a very unique learning experience. It’s a large piece of work, which takes years to complete. It will most likely feel overwhelming at times. Your supervisors and colleagues will be there to support you.

A PhD in humanities and social sciences equips you with wonderful transferable skills that you can use in academia and beyond. Throughout my PhD, I had the chance to research something I am incredibly passionate about. I had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to conduct in-depth interviews in the field, and write up really valuable insights, which have already had an academic and communal impact – from presentations, academic and public-facing pieces of writing, to speaker events.

Find out more about applying for Graduate Research Study at UCL

Find out more about Mie Astrup Jensen (PhD) – Senior Researcher – National Centre for Social Research | LinkedIn

Money, Money, Money! – Managing your Finances at UCL

By UCL Faculty of Arts & Humanities, on 1 November 2024

UCL Spanish & Latin American Studies BA second year student Molly Taylor shares her tips on managing your finances while at university. 

I’m Molly, a first-year Spanish & Latin American Studies student at UCL. The prospect of moving to a city renowned for being expensive can be scary. However, here are some ideas to help you manage your finances effectively so you can make the most of UCL and London. 

Picture this: you’ve just arrived in London, buzzing with excitement for your new academic adventure. Amidst the thrill, however, there’s the inevitable question of finances – tuition fees, accommodation costs, daily expenses, you name it. It can feel daunting, but fear not; with strategic planning, you’ll soon find that there are many ways to budget as a student. 

First things first, get a grip on your expenses. If you can, accessing a student loan is a great way to take the pressure off tuition fees. Other costs will probably include rent, travel, food, study materials, and, of course, social life. In my experience, taking the time to understand these expenses upfront has been key to crafting a budget that works for me. 

Budgeting is your new best friend. Assess your income and expenses, ensuring you allocate funds for essentials while leaving room for a bit of fun or an unexpected expense. Currently, I find that setting aside a specific portion of my income, after rent, for groceries and transport, keeps me on track without sacrificing the occasional treat or night out with friends. I’d recommend using a spreadsheet or budgeting app to keep things organised and simple. 

Meal planning and cooking at home can work wonders for your food budget. Also, using student discount platforms like UniDays and Student Beans can save you a lot when shopping. Top tip – get a Student Oyster photocard for discounted travel on public transport. In addition, exploring part-time job opportunities can provide you with extra income to support your studies and lifestyle. Last year, I found that working just a few shifts a week helped alleviate some of the financial pressures of university life. 

Living and learning in London may throw some financial hurdles your way, but it’s also a chance for personal growth and adventure. Embrace the experience, and remember, there’s a whole network of resources here to back you up. UCL offers financial support for students who need it, so make sure to reach out for assistance if you are struggling. 

Understanding university finances isn’t just about crunching numbers – it’s about taking charge of your financial journey and making informed decisions along the way. By cultivating good habits and reaching out for help when needed, you’ll thrive both academically and personally during your time at UCL. 

Memorable years as an Ancient Languages student – Graduation Reflections

By UCL Faculty of Arts & Humanities, on 23 September 2024

Recent graduate, Siyi Qi BA Ancient Languages with Year Abroad, reflects on her time at UCL. 

Hi, friends! This is Siyi, a recent graduate of BA Ancient Languages in the faculty. I am happy to share with you some of my experiences as an undergraduate studying BA Ancient Languages with Year Abroad, and some of the lessons I have learned along the way.  

I changed degree from UCL/HKU Dual Degree in Law before joining the humanities faculty, and I think it was one of the wiser choices I made. Law is great, but it is not for everyone, and certainly not for me. I am really happy that after changing degree, I could study what really interested me in the humanities faculty. I think we all have times in our lives when we question our own choices. Is what I am doing right for me? While we all arrive at different answers to these questions, I think it is important to recognise that asking these questions is itself valuable, for we know more about ourselves and what we really value. When we choose to act on what we really value, new worlds open up! Of course, we all have fear about uncertainties and what lies beyond the horizon, but I have learned that failure is not really a thing, and mistakes are not that scary. We can handle the unease that comes with change, and when we look back, we will have learned a lot! 

I also undertook a year abroad in Jerusalem as part of my undergraduate studies during the 2022-23 academic year. When I look back, it was an experience like none other. Alongside studying intensive Hebrew, I was able to take a wide range of modules both at Rothberg International School and at the humanities faculty of the Hebrew University. Some of the professors there were visiting from universities in the United States, so it was nice that I had the chance to have a mini liberal arts experience during the year. Another mesmerizing part about studying in the Hebrew University was the amazing access to gardens and green spaces! The botanical garden on Mount Scopus has over 950 plant species preserved within their natural habitats from around the country. As the season changes, the appearance of the species also changes, revealing different senses of beauty. I spent some of my best times in the garden, relaxing by myself, chatting with friends and strolling along the garden path.  

As a recent graduate from a humanities degree at UCL, I am deeply grateful to the wisdom, kindness and knowledge of all my tutors and peers who have accompanied me during my undergraduate studies. There are many things that I cherish in my undergraduate experiences, such as the knowledge I gained, the skills I acquired and the experiences I had. Above all else, I am most grateful for the opportunities I had to grow as a person. I think university years are beautiful because the experiences are not purely vocational. While we do transition into the working world, we are also reading, writing, and engaging with people to figure out the big questions, such as our place in the universe, our relationships with the world and other people, as well as our most urgent yearnings. These things may not provide the most direct economic benefits, but they anchor our heart, give us a sense of meaning and purpose, and could carry us far in life.  

With these, I wish you, my dear readers, every happiness and fulfilment in life, and if you happen to be in UCL now, cherish the time and live well! 

Instagram @siyi_qi 

Find out more about the Department of Hebrew and Jewish Studies

Day-to-day at UCL: Campus Chronicles & Student Life

By UCL Faculty of Arts & Humanities, on 27 August 2024

UCL Spanish and Philosophy BA second year student Joe Hurley shares his University schedule, and how he makes the most out of it. 

Moving to university, and moving to university in London particularly can prove to be a daunting yet exciting challenge. One of the biggest adjustments students have to make is adapting to a very different day-to-day schedule, which is why I want to give tips in this blog on how to make the most of it.  

Contact hours are the main reason why we have to change schedules at uni- we go from having at least 20 hours at school to having as little as half this amount. Whilst it seems hard to fill the remaining time up, the daily schedule UCL offers to its students allows for an ideal balance between independent study, social life, and extra-curriculars.  

As a Philosophy and Spanish student, I normally start the week on Monday as follows: I first go to my 10am lecture for aesthetics, and then the seminar for that module at 2pm. The time in-between gives me plenty of opportunity to decide whether to head to either the Student Centre, Main Library or Science Library and go over my lecture notes before I meet my friends on the steps of Portico to eat lunch (assuming the weather in London wants to be nice to me!). The aesthetics seminar is the best way for me to clarify my understanding of the set reading which will become useful for writing my essays later on in the term. Finally, I finish my Monday classes with a Spanish seminar on translation at 5pm, and having a class so late in the evening was in itself challenging for me at first. However, with some help from UCL’s volunteering society I was able to find a commitment working as a mentor for disadvantaged students after their school day, enabling me to gain valuable experience as a volunteer before my final class.  

Wednesdays are also great for those interested in picking up or continuing a sport, as classes for everyone end at no later than 1pm. With up to 80 different sports to choose from, there is no doubt you can find something that aligns well with your interests and timetable. This year I decided to get into running with UCL’s Athletics Society, and I really enjoyed being able to meet completely new people whilst also do more exercise on top of working out at Bloomsbury Fitness, UCL’s sustainable on-campus gym.  

Overall, navigating day-to-day life at UCL is rewarding despite the initial challenges. By balancing academics, social activities, and personal interests, you can easily make the most of your university experience. Embrace the opportunities, stay organised, and most of all; don’t forget to take advantage of being in London, a city full of culture and countless places to explore! 🙂 

Preparing for your time at UCL, Study Time Structure

By UCL Faculty of Arts & Humanities, on 19 July 2024

UCL Scandinavian Studies and History of Art BA second year student Amelia Chukhnova shares her tips for studying to support students preparing to start at UCL.

Prior to coming to UCL, I expected fifty contact hours per week and rigidly scheduled (independent) study hours, which someone else would define for me. Plainly, I was wrong.

At UCL, a student is expected to dedicate approximately 30 hours to self-study, while the contact hours amount to around 8-12 hours per week, depending on the course and the modules chosen. Modules are usually structured as a combination of lectures and seminars — during the latter students are expected to actively contribute to the class discussion.

On my modules, which are mostly text-based, I was assigned required and recommended readings every week. These readings and reflections on them usually take up the majority of the self-study time. In the seminars, the discussions were built around those readings and questions they suggested, and even though I could still get some meaningful takeaways without reading the assigned texts, preparation prior made the learning experience so much more intense and rewarding.

Another important aspect of the studies was visiting my lecturer’s office hours: reflecting on my own questions and completing some sort of general field research to be able to sustain an insightful academic conversation. It really helps to think outside the box and explore your interests, and sometimes feels like going through an additional (self-directed) module! On additional modules: at UCL, it may be possible to ‘audit’ some classes — attend them but not count them towards your credits — but it depends hugely on departmental policies and the lecturer’s decisions.

Now, the assessments also depend on how a course is structured, but the most common forms are coursework and exams. In my case, for coursework, I had to write referenced essays of around 1500-2500 words in length. Usually, I try to start as early as possible, for I take my time transforming what I read into reasonable ideas, but in most cases, I sit down a week and a half before the submission deadline. Research takes about 10-15 hours to complete if I want to be as meticulous as possible, and the total writing process usually seems to take away all the spare hours of self-study I acquired over the weeks (it depends, of course, on the writing style and the word count). Further, in April and May, there are exams, when students occupy libraries from 8 am to 8 am [sic], revising, reading anew, or practicing past exam papers. The exams are more or less evenly spaced across May, so there is always time to prepare — the key is to stay focused, take care of your physical and mental health (for which UCL provides support!), and manage your time well.

Good luck!

‘East, East, East London!’ – What to see, do and eat around UCL East

By UCL Faculty of Arts & Humanities, on 12 June 2024

UCL BA Scandinavian Studies first year student Katie Lauren Ward shares her top things to do around UCL East. 

UCL’s new East Campus not only provides world class education but is also located in one of the most vibrant, up and coming areas of London. As a Cockney descendant myself, I’m passionate about promoting this underexplored area of the city, so here are my Top 6 things to do around UCL East… 

Catch a game at the London Stadium: 

Located right beside UCL East’s Marshgate building, Europa Conference League winners West Ham United play their home games at the London Stadium. On a match day you’ll see thousands of fans dressed in claret and blue, so why not join them and watch some Premier League football! With student tickets starting from just £15, there’s no reason not to go and support your local club, the Hammers! (BONUS RECOMMENDATION: Walk to Hackney Wick tube station before/after the match to get a ‘Boleyn Bad Boy Hot Dog’ from the Bull Dogs stand for only £3). 

Cool off at the London Fields Lido: 

Take the short Overground journey from Stratford to Hackney Central and enjoy an outdoor swim at the London Fields Lido. The 50m outdoor pool is heated and open year-round with a café and space to sunbathe in Summer too (if the weather cooperates). Tickets are £6 for non-members and it’s recommended to book in advance. 

Feel cultured at the Art Pavilion: 

Head one stop west on the Central Line (or enjoy a 40-minute walk) from Stratford to Mile End to see the exhibits at the Art Pavilion. Located in the scenic Mile End Park, this modern gallery displays a range of art styles through its everchanging exhibitions, most of which are free entry.  The Pavilion also regularly puts on workshops and events which are open to the public so definitely worth checking out! 

Grab some food/drink by the River Lea: 

A short walk from UCL East’s campus, along the banks of the River Lea, a range of bars and restaurants provide stunning views over the water and equally stunning food. A personal favourite of mine is the Number 90 Bar & Kitchen who’s outdoor seating is perfect for watching the canal boats go by. 

Shop till you drop at Westfield Stratford: 

Gone are the days of having to travel to central London for your shopping needs thanks to the creation of Westfield Stratford. With over 300 stores and 70 places to eat, under a 10-minute walk from UCL East, you’ll never be short of choice (just don’t spend your entire student loan there in one day). 

Relive London 2012 at the Olympic Park: 

Before Stratford hosted UCL East, it also hosted the 2012 Olympics and luckily many of the sites from the event are still available to visit today. Whether you choose to swim at the Aquatics Centre, see views of the city from atop the ArcelorMittal Orbit (re-opening in Summer 2024) or go on a guided walking tour of the park, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

How to choose the right university course for you at UCL

By UCL Faculty of Arts & Humanities, on 9 May 2024

UCL BA German and Spanish first year student Molly Clapham shares her experience of choosing which university and degree to study. 

Choosing the right course at UCL is an investment in time and money. Having experienced making a rushed decision (and then dropping out) and making a timely one (which led me to UCL!), I can confirm that proper research, despite being a lengthy process, will save you a lot of confusion and stress.  

It is normal to feel overwhelmed facing this important decision. Those who “have always known” what they wanted to study are in the minority. Personally, it took me a year of studying the wrong course and a gap year to realise what I wanted to pursue. The positive is that I’ve learnt a lot and can share some useful advice.   

The Japanese concept Ikigai, is an invaluable tool that will steer you in the right direction. It poses four key questions: What do you love? What does the world need? What are you good at? And what can you be paid for?  

 The Japanese concept Ikigai. Source, Forbes.  

The best starting point is identifying what you enjoy. Brainstorm a mind-map of any subject or activity that you are interested in (mildly or greatly) and that you would gladly learn about in your spare time. Not only will you be happier at university, you’ll also be more likely to complete your degree and get through the bad days and exam seasons.  

If you find yourself interested in many things, narrow down your options by identifying your strengths. We all have strengths and weakness unique to us, so utilise these to your advantage.  

Look at your course’s graduate prospects and the transferrable skills the course will give you. Instead of pigeon-holing yourself to a particular career, focus on the skills the course will equip you with to become an invaluable employee. Going after the “most employable” or “highest paying” degrees is not an ingredient for success, the skills you gain and how you apply them are.  

Once you have some courses in mind, there are three important components to look at: module content, teaching style and assessment. Find out the module content and the course structure across all years of the degree. Which are compulsory/optional? Does it include a year abroad? How are the modules assessed? Some courses are more exam-based than coursework-based, others are both.  

Teaching style and contact hours also vary. Establish the number of teaching hours a week and whether these are seminars, lectures or/and practicals.  Look closely at the teaching materials and methods. What is the split between individual and group work? Does the course involve textbook-study, or more creative forms of learning such as presentations, podcast-making and website-building? 

The best (and quickest) way to find this information is by contacting the department and students directly. This is important because you get a real sense of what the course is like (from real-life humans and not a website page!). This will also give you insight into the department itself and is a good opportunity to learn about what activities and opportunities are offered outside of classes to complement your studies. When I was applying, I scheduled a meeting with a department member, which helped me make my final decision. 

My Interdisciplinary Journey as an Arts & Sciences Student

By UCL Faculty of Arts & Humanities, on 4 April 2024

UCL BASc (majors in culture) third year student Maxima Bachmaier shares their interdisciplinary journey.

Hello everyone! I’m Maxima, a final-year Arts & Sciences (BASc) student at UCL with major in Cultures.

With my diverse range of interests spanning languages, communications, business, marketing and psychology, the interdisciplinary BASc programme immediately appealed to me for its flexibility and breadth of opportunities.

The BASc course at UCL offers a unique framework where students can tailor their studies to their individual interests and strengths by taking modules across diverse disciplines and departments at UCL. As a BASc student, you will choose a major and a minor pathway for your studies from the four fields of Culture, Societies, Engineering and Health & Environment, within which you have a free choice of modules of your interest. This gives you the opportunity to dynamically explore your strengths and gain an insight into diverse academic fields, fostering a holistic approach to learning.

Personally, I chose Cultures as my major pathway in line with my personal interests and aspirations, allowing me to immerse myself in two foreign languages, Spanish at advanced and Mandarin at beginner level, while exploring modules in Linguistics, Communication Science, Media Studies, Journalism, and Creative Writing. For my minor, I chose to focus on Psychology as part of the Health & Environment pathway, engaging with subjects like Social Psychology, Individual Differences, and Organisational Psychology. Holistically, the multifaceted skillset I have acquired throughout my BASc journey will be of great value and benefit for my personal future career aspirations in the marketing and communications field.

Beyond acquiring knowledge in my areas of interest, the Arts & Sciences programme has nurtured my interdisciplinary thinking, providing me with many new perspectives, fresh insights and opportunities to broaden my horizons. Through our core modules in interdisciplinary research, including both quantitative and qualitative methods, I have developed a robust academic foundation and holistic problem-solving skills essential for navigating today’s dynamic educational and professional landscape.

During my BASc journey, I have become increasingly aware of the value and significance of interdisciplinary thinking in addressing the complex, interconnected global challenges of our time, from climate change to social inequality. As BASc students, we are encouraged to transcend academic boundaries, explore multidisciplinary perspectives, and bring together diverse insights to develop innovative, integrated solutions.

Overall, my BASc journey has truly shaped my personality and perspective of the world, equipping me not only with in-depth academic knowledge but also with the ability to connect the dots and grasp the interrelationships between diverse ideas and insights from across disciplines. As I prepare for postgraduate study and my future career, I’m highly grateful for the enriching experiences and lifelong skills this programme has provided me with.

Curious to broaden your horizons and gain new insights from a range of disciplines?

Then the BASc programme may be the perfect choice for you!

Feel free to get in touch with me if you are interested to learn more about my experiences.
Looking forward to connecting and perhaps crossing paths at UCL in the future!

Email: maxima.bachmaier.21@ucl.ac.uk 

Instagram: @maxima__b
 

Find out more about UCL Arts and Sciences department and the courses they offer. 

Engaging with every aspect of your course

By UCL Faculty of Arts & Humanities, on 7 March 2024

UCL ESPS second-year student Cecily Rowley shares how they engage with every aspect of university life. 

I remember applying to UCL and being excited for two things: my new classes and my new social life. I viewed these two as separate. In my mind, freshers’ week was my one big chance to make friends, and once classes started, socialising would be more challenging. How wrong I was! Whilst it is true that freshers’ week is an excellent opportunity to meet new people- everyone wants to chat, dance, be open and discover the area- it is far from the only chance you will get to do so. If you are not a huge fan of clubbing and drinking, there is still hope for you! I found that by fully engaging with my course, I was able to build meaningful and rewarding friendships that have lasted well into my second year.

Most courses have hundreds of students, which can be overwhelming and even slightly isolating at first. During freshers’ week, my department organised introductory talks and gatherings. Sitting in a lecture theatre for the first time was definitely nerve racking- but as I looked around, it became apparent that everyone was in the same boat as me. As we sat waiting for the presentation to start, or as we all crowded towards the exit, I found myself chatting to the people around me, and it was effortless. “What did you think of the lecturers?”, “When’s your first class?”, and more importantly, “Are you going to the ESPS mixer at the Portico?”, “Are you going to the talk about that new book?”.

Checking my emails later that evening, I found countless opportunities to meet people with similar interests on my course. On top of lectures and seminars, during the entire year, most departments offer places at guest talks and academic presentations. Whether you fancy learning more about geography, history, politics or urban planning, these talks not only allow you to expand your knowledge of your field of study, but also provide a great chance to socialise. I met some of my best friends at a guest talk on bioethics.

My course has its own society, which organises plenty of events. Joining a society related to your course, as well as a sports’ society (or circus society, whatever floats your boat), will help you to connect with the people in your department, and feel more integrated within your academic community.

Uni life is not social life versus studies. Rather, it is a big, wonderful mix of both. Academia and friendships intersect in so many ways. I strongly encourage every student, current or prospective, to attend the optional talks and gatherings organised by their department. You never know who you’ll meet or what you’ll learn. That kind of mystery isn’t daunting, it’s exciting!

Discover more about UCL European & International Social & Political Studies Department…