University College London - Summer School - UCL
speciality: Sociology

As a current BSc Sociology student at UCL, I can confidently say that it’s been a transformative experience that has shaped both my academic and personal growth. UCL, as London’s global university, offers an intellectually stimulating, and humanistic approach that prioritises both students’ academic performance and wellbeing.
UCL provides a wide range of courses that cater various fields of study. As a Sociology student, I’ve been particularly impressed with Social Research Institute’s expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research, and the positive academic atmosphere that encourages critical thinking and independent learning. The teaching staff are highly approachable by providing support during their office hours. Our personal tutors also actively engage with us to ensure that we are not only excelling academically, but also managing our university life effectively.
UCL’s commitment to student wellbeing is evident in its holistic support systems. The university goes beyond academic by offering extensive mental health resources, counselling services, and academic advising (e.g. Regular webinars from the Academic Writing Centre). A particularly reassuring aspect is UCL’s extenuating circumstances policy. We are allowed to self-certify in case of personal difficulties or challenges that my affect our academic performance, offering a flexible approach that takes into account the pressures that students may face in their personal lives.
The diverse and inclusive nature of UCL is another highlight. With about 50% of international students, UCL is a melting pot of cultures, ideas and perspectives. As an international student myself, I have found this environment enriching and empowering, as UCL is committed to ensure that students from different cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds feel supported and celebrated.
UCL’s location in the heart of London enhances the student experience by providing a wealth of cultural, professional and social opportunities. It is geographically convenient for us to access cultural experiences (e.g. The British Museum, British Library and King’s Cross Station). This exposure to London’s rich history and cultural diversity has significantly broadened my worldview, further enhancing my academic studies in Sociology. I got to visit the National Portrait Gallery during a lecture on the module Sociology of Race and Ethnicity, and this experience deepened my understanding of how historical representations of race and identity shape societal perceptions. I then wrote an essay on Dame Christabel Pankhurst, which allowed me to engage with primary sources and arts at these iconic cultural institutions, and directly complemented my academic learning with a tangible, real-world layer to my studies.
In addition, UCL provides plenty of paid working opportunities within the campus itself. I have worked as a Transition Mentor, where I led weekly sessions supporting incoming students in their adjustment to university life. This role allowed me to develop valuable leadership, communication, and organisational skills while also fostering a sense of community and belonging.