Julia Walschebauer, Spa, Belgium
(Class of 2015/6)
"It is hard to describe what I appreciate the most about studying Political Economy of Europe at the European Institute: whether it is the close contact with internationally recognized professors inside and outside class, the amazing speakers coming to the Institute every Monday and Friday afternoon, the specialized career advisors giving us valuable tips for our next step after the LSE or the international active student community, always ready to debate the topics of our course around a drink. On top of all that, I was so lucky to get elected as President of the LSESU European Society, which allowed me not only to organise study related debates, visits and events but also to get close contact with people from other programs and even universities. All those special experiences is what makes LSE truly unique to me. And if I can give you one advise: do seize all the opportunities offered to you because this one year will pass by more quickly thank you think!"
Michelangelo Bruno, Milan, Italy
(Class of 2014/5)
"LSE is an incredible institution. The environment is extremely multicultural and stimulating. I strongly believe that what really makes the difference is the overall environment not just the concepts you learn by taking the courses. I wanted a relevant international experience and I couldn’t have expected anything better than this. I had the opportunity to build long lasting friendships with people from all over the world. Furthermore, LSE broadened my perspectives. The most important skill I acquired during this experience is to formulate solid arguments grounded on data and economical reasoning. Having an economic background, I learned how difficult it is making the decision to implement a particular policy. During one presentation at the beginning of the year I was impressed by a quote from a professor: “In social sciences it is difficult to work out a clear answer to some problems. In contrast with a physic that studies ‘natural phenomena’, the social scientists have to deal with human beings”. During the MSc Political Economy of Europe programme I also had the opportunity to deepen my knowledge of relevant issues that are currently being debated among economists and policy makers, such as the fragility of the EMU, the changing nature of European Welfare States and the need for European Social Policy to address new challenges. I hold a Masters in Accounting, Financial Management and Control and I already have some working experience. I chose this subject at LSE for the prestige of the School and because I wanted to expand my knowledge in this specific area. I took this course as I want to work in the Central Banking sector and as a result I have successfully secured a job at the European Central Bank. This July I will move to Frankfurt to begin this new adventure."
Anne Steinhoff, Marsberg, Germany
(Class of 2014/5)
"I can still recall the study-intensive but international and welcoming atmosphere that I felt from the first moment being on campus while attending a public lecture with my school class some years ago. This experience made LSE my first choice when applying for a master degree. I chose the Political Economy of Europe degree because for me the EU has always been an exciting institution. Considering all the current issues and crises, there are plenty of reasons to study the EU. This year has taught me not to take conventional views for granted and to be confident about challenging existing views. After undertaking an internship at the BBC, I am planning to apply for employment in their business affairs department."
Timo Klein, Amsterdam, Netherlands
(Class of 2013/4)
“After finishing my Bachelor programme in Economics, I felt that I was missing an essential multidisciplinary part of my education. The MSc Political Economy of Europe at the LSE offered me precisely this: a multi-angled approach to European political and economic developments and contemporary issues. The vibrant academic climate at LSE further supported my personal and intellectual developments. The pro-active and supportive team of lecturers and support staff, as well as a wealth of public lectures and other events, allowed me to get the most out of my year at LSE. I was surprised by the dedication shown by the staff in supporting you all the way – often causing the one-on-one meetings with teachers turning from 15 into 50 minutes, because they genuinely wanted to make sure that you are helped with the questions that you had. Lastly, the supportive attitude among fellow students was for me one of the most valuable assets this year. A serious dedication to our studies allowed us to support each other along the way, while frequent social events during the evenings and weekends allowed us to relax and make the many friends that we have made this year. I believe that this genuine ‘work hard, play hard’ atmosphere is one of the things that makes a year at LSE so unique. The LSE has truly been an eye-opening experience that I can recommend to everyone without any reservations. Next I will go back to the Netherlands to start a two-year research programme in Economics, equipped with the knowledge and experience that I have gained at LSE – an experience that I have come to believe to be indispensable.”