Category: London Life

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Lieke’s summer at King’s

Not knowing what to expect and both nervous and excited, I boarded the train which would take me to London from the Netherlands. Only a few hours later, I arrived in the heart of London. This was the beginning of an amazing and very valuable experience. In the following three weeks, I would experience joy, stress, happiness, sadness, and amazement, and I would feel so grateful for being able to study in such a vibrant city.

During my time in London I met so many different people from all over the world, each with their own story and personality, but they were all such beautiful human beings. I loved discussing the differences between our cultures, and I am thankful for being able to explore London with them. From visiting Greenwich to participating in a pub quiz, joining the Harry Potter walking tour, having dinner at Camden Market, going to Portobello Road Market, and feeling like a typical tourist when posing in front of the Houses of Parliament or on Millennium Bridge, it has all been amazing and I hope to be able to stay in touch with as many of these new friends as possible.

However, making many new friends from all over the world is just one aspect of the King’s College Summer School Programme. The Summer School also helps you to become more independent. A few years ago, I visited London with my family, but this was a totally different experience compared to studying in London for three weeks this summer. When I was visiting London with my family, my parents were usually the ones trying to figure out how to get from one highlight to the other, but when I was studying in London this summer, I had to figure this out all by myself. The first time I had to use the London Underground, I was very confused, but it didn’t take a long time before I was able to use the Underground without feeling completely lost, especially if I had to change tube lines. Of course, taking care of the laundry on your own and going grocery shopping by yourself may seem quite difficult if your parents usually take care of these things for you, but it soon becomes easier once you’ve done these things a couple of times.

Definitely the most challenging part of the Summer School was finding a balance between studying and exploring the city. This was something I was especially struggling with during the first week of the Summer School. After class, I would usually meet up with friends to go to an new area of London, but as I had a test by the end of every week, I usually felt very stressed when I realised I only had a small amount of time left to prepare. Therefore, my advice to prospective Summer School students would be: explore London as much as you can, but definitely don’t forget to study regularly and to do your homework in order to not fall behind, because good time management will definitely help to reduce your stress levels.

All in all, studying in London has been one of the best experiences of my entire life and I would definitely recommend everyone to study abroad for a few weeks during the summer, since this will – without a doubt – be an experience you’ll cherish forever.

Lieke Gol

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Katarina’s summer at King’s

 

I remember walking in on my first day, not knowing anyone and thinking to myself, “This is going to be a long two weeks”. Little did I know that 12 days later, I would be crying with my friends not wanting to say goodbye. All the people that I got to know, and the countless memories built at King’s are truly irreplaceable.
The Pre-University Psychology course at King’s was one of the most inspiring and fun experiences of my life. Not only did I learn an extensive amount about topics that greatly interest me, but I was able to explore what university life is like in one of the liveliest cities in the world. Our campus was located less than 10 minutes from the “must sees” that London has to offer, and a beautiful walk along the Thames. This convenience was best experienced when my friends and I would go get a truffle burger for lunch by the river between our two daily seminars. After a total of up to 6 and a half hours of lectures and educational activities per day, we had around 4 hours (until our curfew!) to explore London and its vibrant and diverse culture. However, soon that free time was shortened by essay writing, testing out how to do laundry, and trying to stay fit from all those burgers. Yet, to me, this was one of the most influential aspects of the summer course: realising what university life might be like, and that, contrary to what mom says, you can wash black and white clothes in the same washing machine.


I think I speak on behalf of all my friends that I met during those two weeks when I say that every moment at King’s was an unforgettable one. From making long-lasting friendships and exploring London to having the opportunity to talk with inspiring professors, this course was one that teaches you to be more independent, confident, and ready to tackle the challenges that life brings. Looking back now, there is nothing  that I would change about the course, except maybe making it double as long.

Katarina Krajnovic – Pre-University Summer School

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Here Comes the Sun!

 

Next week will be the start of 2019’s Summer School. We have been waiting for your arrival with great anticipation, and we’re sure you have been just as excited! We hope you are ready to make the journey from your home country, and we have been spending all year preparing for your arrival. We guarantee that Summer at King’s will be a summer that you will never forget.

Not only are you able to study at one of the best institutions in the world, you are also in a friendly environment within one of the most diverse and lively cities. The unique advantage of having a campus in the middle of London allows you to learn not only within the classroom, but also every time you set foot outside your accommodation. Meeting people from all around the world will mean that not only are you the students, but you are often the teachers – of your different cultures, practices and customs!

Here in the Summer Programmes Office, we see students get inspired from their time studying abroad year after year. Many of the students attending Summer at King’s use this opportunity to see the perks in receiving an education or living in a different country, and often repeat the experience. For many of you, this will be the first time away from home and out of the familiar. When you leave your comfort zone once, you will be able to do it repeatedly after that, and past students often credit summer at King’s as the experience which broke that initial barrier.

If you need any help before or during your time in London, please remember the Summer Programmes Office is easy to contact or visit. We can help you with anything from and fears or worries you may have, to where to buy anything you need or recommendations of where to visit.

Remember to review the checklist in the handbook, pack all the essential items and research the necessary information for your academic course. Then, take a deep breath, and get ready to fly to London!

Are you ready for the summer of your lives? Prepare to make plenty of new friends and memories at one of the best institutions in the world! 

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King’s summer experience

Wondering how the summer school experience is? In today’s post our students share their experience with you.

Undergraduate Summer School students 

‘It’s my first time to be abroad. At first, I was a little bit nervous. But the amazing view of London, the kindness of everyone nearby helped me a lot and I love King’s now!’ – Lina Zha

‘King’s not only provided me with a fantastic international study programme, which broadened both my knowledge and interest in international law. They also provided a fantastic and unique environment to meet and get to know people from all regions of the world, helping not only make friends and networks but to appreciate different cultures and different learning styles. The friends I’ve made will stay friends forever – and the skills and knowledge taught will be used in both further study and in the workforce. I would strongly recommend King’s college summer school for everyone.’ – Melia, Australia

‘King’s Summer School is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Not only do you get to live in one of the most vibrant cities in the world, with countless events taking place daily, but you also get to experience studying at one of the best universities in the world. It is, overall, an experience worth postponing your regular summer holidays over, as you will have the best holidays possible and will definitely dread leaving London at the end.‘ – Aikaterini, Greece

Pre-University Summer School students

‘King’s college summer school was a completely unique experience which gave me an unparalleled insight into university life. Each lecture was stimulating and exciting and I would highly recommend the experience. I took part in the medicine course which informed me further on student life as a medic and on the career as a whole. This will help me significantly when it comes to applying to universities in future.’ – Elena, UK

‘An excellent way to get to know new cultures, with excellent people, expert teachers, interesting courses and legendary ambassadors. Really recommend it! ‘ – Juan Llorens, Spain

The applications are closing on 10th June, if you want to join us this summer please submit your application here. If you have already applied, we will see you soon.

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London Calling

This week London was (unsurprisingly) named the best destination in the world by the 2019 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards. London is also the number 1 student city in the world for university students, according to QS Higher Education Group.

It’s an iconic city full of history and art, endless restaurants, bars, coffee shops and free museums. There is so much to see and do in London, you will never be bored! ‘Diversity’ is the best word to describe the city that has people from all corners of the world. This city will open your horizons, makes you see things from a different perspective and allow you to meet people from around the globe.

London is also home to big dreams and endless job opportunities meaning most students choose to stay here after graduating.

Our summer team is a mix of nationalities. Here’s some thoughts about London from the team:

‘Moving to London was the best life decision I ever made. This city is so, fun, vibrant and dynamic. From food markets to West End shows and music gigs there is always something to do. One of my favourite things about London is the cultural diversity. I have been fortunate enough to make friends with people from all over the world who live here in London. If you are considering moving to London, I say stop thinking and do it – it may be a big city, but it’s full of welcoming, cheerful Londoners.’ – Jen Ahern (from Australia)

 

‘Living in London is a life experience! An experience that makes you grow personally and professionally, it teaches you to be respectful, proactive and independent. It’s a city full of opportunities that moves at a fast pace but at the same time teaches you to appreciate the simple things in life, such as a walk in the park and even your own country ‘. – Joana Correia (from Portugal)

 

 

‘London is a city that has become the home for people from around the world. I have always felt very welcome in London because of it. At the same time it isn’t a city whose identity isn’t also undeniably English and quintessentially British. Wherever you are in London, you feel the character, the history, the heartbeat of this fantastic place’ – Alexander Heinz (from Germany) 

 

 

‘Having been born and bred in this great city, I could never dream of leaving. For me, London is less a about tea, scones and old buildings like the old caricature always goes, but is instead more of a fast-paced, trendy, diverse and incredibly welcoming city. London becomes home for everyone who visits, and will always be open. – Neil Vadgama (from the UK)

 

Our summer programmes are an opportunity to experience London not only from a student perspective but also from a Londoner point of view (the only difference is that if you stay in King’s accommodation you will not experience the London commute – you can thank us later.)

If you haven’t started your application move to ready, set, apply. London is calling!

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A taste of University life

Applying for university can be a daunting task. It helps to be well informed about your options by speaking with your career adviser, attending university open days and chatting with current university students about their experience.

If you want to take it a step further and discover what the life of a university student in London is really like, our Pre-University Summer School is for you. Designed for high school students in their final 2 years of study, it lets you study a subject at Undergraduate level for two weeks. So, if you’re unsure about what you want to study after high school, why not ‘try before you buy?’ It is also an opportunity to meet students from around the world and add studying at a globally-renowned and research-led university to your CV or resume.

Our Pre-University Programme Manager, Mina Chakmagi, agrees that the benefits of the programme go beyond the classroom.  

‘I love seeing just how much students gain from the Pre-University Summer School. It’s not only a chance to get a taster of their chosen subject at undergraduate level – a lot of the feedback I’ve received from students is about increased levels of confidence, independence, improved team-working and presentation skills and cultural awareness. These are all important skills to be able to draw on when making the transition from high school to further study and future careers. I would encourage anyone considering such a programme to apply and see for themselves what an enriching and fun experience it is.’

But don’t just take our word for it, here’s what Nina from the USA who studied The Human Body with us in summer 2018 had to say;

“This was one of the most memorable experiences of my life; the two weeks were filled with unforgettable explorations of London, friendships that will undoubtedly last a life time, and opportunities for learning both in and out of the classroom. Our professor was very knowledgeable and encouraged a classroom environment in which any questions and discussions were welcome. I entered the program with an interest in medicine, and after taking the class I could not be more certain that pursuing a medical career is the right path for me. London feels like a second home now, and I remain in touch with the brilliant people I met there. As I begin the application process to university, I realise how much King’s prepared me for future academic endeavours, and I am so glad that I participated in the programme.”

Want to know more about our summer school? Visit our website for detailed information. If you have any questions, please get in touch with us at summer@kcl.ac.uk.

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Every summer has a story

Another Summer Programmes season has come to an end.

From now, those who studied with us are King’s alumni and part of the family so please keep in touch with us. We would love to know how your experience at King’s was.

What impact did it have in your life? Did anything change in your personality? Do you feel inspired to study or work abroad in future? What is your summer story?

Please share with any memories, stories and photos with us via email summer@kcl.ac.uk or tag us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. Please don’t forget to complete the surveys that we sent, your opinion is very important to us.

Thank you all for coming and spending the summer with us.

A special thank you to our team and tutors who worked hard over the summer to provide a good experience to everyone.

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Memorable 2018 Summer

This Summer is one of the top 10 warmest summers on record in the UK, according to the Met Office, which makes it already unforgettable for many people. But it is particularly memorable for our students who decided to take part of their summer holiday to learn, explore and go on an adventure to King’s College London.

To many people, that was the first time that they have taken a flight alone, travelled away from their countries, spoken English 24/7 and met people from so many countries in a short period of time.

No one can get bored in London, especially during summer, and it’s often difficult to choose what to do during free time.

Most of our programmes include excursions and tours which help our students to explore London attractions. West End Theatre, Harry Potter Tour, Imperial War Museum, Royal Courts of Justice and the Wellcome Collection are some of the places where our students have been.

The photos below will certainly be in our 2018 Summer photo album.

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Summer (time) flies

Time is flying, and while some students are starting packing to go home some are packing to join us for session two next week.

Australia, South Africa, Kenya, Mexico and USA are some of the destinations from around 90 countries that students are heading back over the next few days.

Spending a few weeks away from home could seem long but in fact once you get here it flies by and most people would probably like to stay longer. Hopefully some will feel inspired to return and spend a longer period at King’s.

During the last three weeks students had lectures taught by King’s academics, met industry professionals, had hands-on experience, worked in groups, went on excursions and of course explored London in their free time.

To those who are going back home, have a good journey back and keep exploring, and to those who are arriving in London this weekend, have a safe journey, we are looking forward to meeting you all.

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Pre-University fun times checklist

The countdown has started! In less than a month, you will be in London having an unforgettable life experience on the Pre-University Summer School. Having the chance to be taught by King’s College London academics is a fantastic opportunity, and you should make the most out of it. London has so much to offer that we recommend you to make a list of the main attractions that you want to see when you are not busy with classes and studies. And don’t worry, London Eye, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, South Bank and the West End (an area of Central and West London where the main theatres are concentrated) are just around the corner from our campuses.

To help you prepare for your social experience, we have 20 tickets available for the musical comedy, Aladdin. Based on the Disney movie, it has been running in the West End since 2011 to raving reviews.

The dates and times of the show are:

  • 16 July 2018 at 7.30pm – suitable for session one students (9 – 20 July)
  • 31 July 2018 at 7.30pm – suitable for session two students (23 July – 3 August)

For further information and to book tickets, please click here.

We are also arranging day trips to the picturesque city of Oxford on Saturday 14 July and Saturday 28 July. These are fully escorted and guided tours on a private luxury coach. The day includes a walking tour of the historic city centre and what is considered a favourite tradition amongst students – punting along the river. For further information and to book tickets, please click here.

There is also the new Arcade Garden at Bush House, which is part of the Strand Campus, with free creative wellbeing workshops, including watercolour painting, mindful movement, garden workshops, breathful chanting and fragrance making. It is a perfect place for you relax, study and have a break. For further information about the workshops, please click here.

Now is the time to start making your check-list and booking everything you need before arriving, so you don’t need worry about anything apart from your studies and experience. Please visit our website for more social activities.