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)

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…