How a Summer at LSE Changed My Path

The Academic Experience

What if you let your career choose you?

I did that for a long time. At university, I followed the traditional path. I took the courses, passed the exams, and moved forward without asking myself where I really wanted to go.

Then something shifted. A friend from a top university told me he was going to a summer school. Hard courses, in the middle of summer at the London School of Economics. At first it sounded strange. But it made me curious.

I’m Andrea, an environmental engineer. I have studied in the USA, France, the UK, Switzerland, and Italy. Engineers are problem-solvers, we adapt. This summer, I adapted again. Even without a background in finance or accounting, I enrolled in an advanced course in investment banking.

Why? Because if you want to work with governments, NGOs, or companies, you need to speak the language of business.

Finance drives change. It moves capital, directs investments, and shapes which ideas become reality. But how can you push for change if you don’t understand how companies operate, how credit markets function, or how interest rates affect decisions?

This course gave me a foundation. I learned directly from professors who spent their lives studying markets and from professionals at Citi and other major institutions. More than that, I learned from classmates. We studied late, challenged each other, and debated real questions: Why did Tesla have negative returns for years? What does that mean for its business model?

The diversity was powerful. Students came from California, New York, India, Japan, Singapore, Europe: each bringing a different perspective, and helping me to shape new ideas.

I’m grateful for this experience - it challenged me, gave me tools, and reminded me of something important: you don’t have to let your career choose you. You can choose.

The Campus Experience

Life on campus was just as important as the lectures. The programme was intense - days filled with classes, readings, and discussions. The evenings were then packed with exploring London with your friends.

Outside the classroom was just important as the studying - we went out, shared meals, and explored the city together. That’s where real bonds formed.

Soon I’ll visit a friend in France, and a classmate from India will come to see me. With him, I’m already discussing a sustainable design business.

With another friend, we’re shaping the idea of a fintech start-up.

One of my favourite memories was our international dinner nights. Everyone cooked something from their country. As an Italian, I like to think I won, but I’ll admit the chicken dhal from my Indian friend was incredible. Food became another way to share culture, laugh together, and build friendships that I know will last.

The learning didn’t stop in the classroom. It continued over late-night conversations, shared meals, and ambitious plans for the future. That mix of challenge and connection made the experience unforgettable.

 

Overall, my experience at LSE Summer School pushed me out of my comfort zone and exposed me to new ideas and friendships that I will cherish as I progress in my career.

 

This blog was written by one of our 2025 Student Ambassadors, who are here to share their stories and help you understand the summer school experience at LSE.