From Beijing to London: How the Academic Director’s Scholarship Transformed My Summer

Why I applied to LSE Summer School

I was a second-year student at Beijing Normal University, majoring in Education and minoring in Law, when I applied for LSE Summer School.

I had always been active in university activities and wanted to make a real difference in the world. However, I felt that I still lacked an international perspective and a stronger understanding of policies and economics. When I discovered LSE Summer School, I saw it as an opportunity to step outside my academic comfort zone and broaden my horizons.

I also applied for the merit-based Academic Director’s Scholarship, which recognises students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential in addressing global challenges.

The email that changed everything

I still remember the moment I received the scholarship email. It was a late spring night and I was walking outside when the notification appeared on my phone. I stopped and stared at the screen, reading the words again and again to make sure they were real.

For a few seconds, I felt nothing but disbelief. Then came the feeling of gratitude and a sudden sense of responsibility. I had been awarded the Academic Director’s Scholarship.

At that moment, everything felt settled: my place at LSE Summer School confirmed, the scholarship awarded, accommodation arranged. I thought the hardest part was over. But soon, a new wave of anxiety quietly began to set in.

When the nerves set in

As an international student from a non-English-speaking country, my biggest concern was language. Although I had studied English for years, I worried about discussing complex theories in a room filled with students whose English would be much better than mine.

I also questioned whether I would be able to keep up academically. My major was different from many others in the course. Would I fall behind? Would I feel out of place?

And then there was the social side. What if I couldn’t make friends? What if I ended up studying alone in a city so far from home? Looking back, I realise that these fears were natural and that they were only part of the bigger story.

The first step

Before my long flight from Beijing, I met two girls who were also travelling to LSE Summer School. We had never spoken before, but simply knowing we were heading to the same place made everything feel less overwhelming. That small moment changed my mindset. I realised I was not stepping into the unknown alone – there were hundreds of students from around the world doing exactly the same thing.

Finding my place

I’ve always been introverted, but that summer I pushed myself to attend various meet-ups. At first, it was awkward, and I was too nervous to start a conversation. But LSE Summer School had a very welcoming atmosphere, and I was able to make some close friends.

I still look back at all the memories made, both inside and outside the classroom. From walking along the Thames with new friends, sharing stories about our lives back home to dancing at the Summer School boat party, singing with people whose names we had only just learned.

What began as anxiety slowly transformed into confidence. I realised that confidence does not mean never feeling nervous – it means showing up anyway.

My message to future students

If you’re hesitating about applying to LSE Summer School, I understand. Trust me: every student feels nervous before arriving.

• Concerned about language? Listen to a few lectures or read some related articles in advance. Preparation builds confidence.
• Worried about making friends? Try joining one or two meet-ups or orientation events. One short conversation can lead to a lasting connection.
• Unsure about the course content? Ask questions and join discussions. Professors and classmates are always willing to help.
• Anxious about accommodation, transport, or everyday life? Explore. There are countless resources and guides available, and many people are happy to share their experience.

Most of the anxieties you feel at the beginning will fade. What seems unfamiliar at first often becomes empowering after you take the first step.

Looking ahead

Receiving the Academic Director’s Scholarship was not only financial support, but it was an invitation into a community of exceptional students who are committed to addressing global challenges. Being surrounded by other scholars, each with their own ambitions and perspectives, pushed me to think bigger about my own goals.

This summer did not remove all my fears. Instead, it taught me to face them. It showed me that stepping out of my comfort zone is often the first step towards expanding your impact.

If you are considering applying, I hope my story reassures you. Growth rarely feels comfortable at the beginning, but it’s all so worth it.