We are proud of our diverse student community, which is drawn from over 120 countries across the world. Read about their experiences as international students in a post-Brexit UK, and how they feel to be a #partofLSE.

Erica Belcher, Master’s student, Comparative Politics

"The UK’s decision to leave the EU has created a sense of solidarity at LSE. The School is unique in fostering research across boundaries and borders, but I think that sense of collaboration has spread more broadly as a result of Brexit. It highlights the strength of LSE’s community - we’re all helping each other navigate through unknown territory."

Aruna Krishnan, Master’s student, Political Science and Political Economy

"When I left home to study at LSE, London felt overwhelming. At the School however, I’ve always felt supported. Faculty have guided me academically and the International Student Visa Advice Team provided practical assistance through workshops.

As a melting pot of nationalities, LSE has enriched me intellectually and made me feel like my voice matters as part of an internationally diverse community. It means LSE is now a home away from home."

Matthew Lesh, Master’s student, Public Policy and Administration 

"As a public policy student, it’s an exciting time to be in London to see this extraordinary moment in Britain’s political history first-hand. Practitioners have spoken in our classes about their work in the field, which adds an extra dimension to the educational experience here.

The UK’s decision to leave the EU is complex, but I’m hopeful LSE can help us understand why Brexit happened and what happens next, as well as equip me with skills to contribute to public policy."

Shelly Yiran Shi, third year undergraduate, Philosophy and Economics

"Brexit hasn’t changed how people treat each other at LSE. There might be disagreement about the decision, but that hasn’t divided our community. That’s the best thing about the School, everyone has different opinions and they’re appreciated as well as challenged in a positive way."

Julian Kwong, Master’s student, Conflict Studies

"I appreciate being part of a study body that includes lots of international students. Having people share their diverse experiences in the classroom has brought what I’m studying to life. Being at LSE makes you realise how big the world is, and how important it is to highlight our different stories. It reminds us that we’re all human."

Hugo Engel, first year undergraduate, Politics and Philosophy 

"One of the reasons I chose to study at LSE was because of the international student body here. Since I’ve joined I’ve learnt so much from those around me, both academically and socially.

I don’t want my European friends to feel the decision to leave the EU was a vote against European people. As a British student and a Londoner, I’m keen to show others that we’re a tolerant city which counts diversity as one of its strengths."

John Lee, second year undergraduate, Accounting and Finance 

"There’s synergy when people from different cultures interact. You’re able to produce a more holistic picture by comparing and building on each others' experiences. LSE’s community is proud of its commitment to cooperation and open exchange. It’s something the wider world should strive towards too."

Andrea Solis, first year undergraduate in Philosophy, Politics and Economics

"In 2017 I’m going to take advantage of all the opportunities that we have at LSE. I’m looking forward to making connections with people I never thought I’d meet. LSE is so international, and that’s one of the reasons I was so excited about studying here - you don’t get that anywhere else."

Jonas Roleder, Masters student, Political Economy of Europe

"I’m hoping for an honest and healthy relationship between the EU and the UK in 2017. That’s why I’m excited to hear from world-leading experts who are coming to the School to speak on this topic. Having access to such high profile figures really adds to LSE’s unique learning environment."

Anupriya Jain, Masters student, Organisational and Social Psychology

"What I love about LSE is that people here are so optimistic. Even though there are so many changes going on in the world, our community is still so open. I’m not a British national, but at LSE I feel like I’m home. That’s why in 2017 I’m hoping to channel that positivity, to help me remember that everything will be ok."

What makes you feel #partofLSE? What are your hopes for 2017 and what are you looking forward to achieving this year? Join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram using #partofLSE.