Finding balance while you study

Back in April our current Masters Scholarship holder Lara shared a blog with us about her study experiences. We published only a section of it back then, so here is the rest.

Lara is a part-time student taking an MSc in International Social and Public Policy (Research) at London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).

Thinking about the future 

Having spent time in work between degrees, coming back to university has made me more motivated to study than ever. I have absolutely loved the course so far and I would really recommend it to anyone considering the world of policy research.

Gaining exposure to this field, and getting to know my lecturers, has only deepened that interest.

Learning how to critically analyse research methods and understand more about what makes a good research paper has been invaluable – and something I now apply to everything I read. 

I have become especially interested in social security policies, and thinking about ways policy can ensure everyone is supported and protected through strong public services. 

LSE is also great at connecting your degree to career options. Guest lecturers from professional roles such as senior civil servants and think tank researchers have been eye-opening. 

Great mix of people and career paths

One of the best things about a master’s is the diversity of backgrounds in the student body. Unlike undergraduate, where most people are fairly fresh out of secondary school, postgraduate degrees bring people with a whole range of experience. 

It has been fascinating speaking to course mates who have, for example, spent several years in the Civil Service, worked as researchers with international NGOs or even come from medical professions. 

There are so many different career paths to learn from, which has enriched the whole experience. 
Inevitably, this course has led me to think about the future an awful lot. Seeing the work of LSE’s research centres, such as the Centre for Analysis of Social Exclusion, has made me keenly aware of the importance of policy research, whilst the experience of studying itself has reminded me just how much I love the academic environment. 

As well as talking to fellow students and attending LSE talks, I have attended careers events, such as the Resolution Foundation working in the Think Tank sector talk. 

I am now thinking about pathways into policy, advocacy and research work, particularly in think tanks and non-profit organisations.

I am planning to spend more time discussing this with the lecturers I have met at LSE, to figure out where to go next. With studying part-time, I am lucky to have another year for these conversations! 

Make time for hobbies

In amongst working and studying, it has also been really important for me to continue to pursue my hobbies and spend time with family and friends! I have been passionate about music for a while, organising events and DJing regularly during my undergraduate degree. 

I have continued this with my work at community radio station Voices in London, programming and producing shows there. I am so glad I can still fit it into my schedule – it is great to have something I love that is separate from both my job and my degree. 

This year, I have learnt how important it is to find balance, take your time and work out what makes sense for you. 

I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience of being a part-time MSc student at LSE, and I am unbelievably grateful for Masters Compare’s role in making this academic year as brilliant as it has been. 

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