Maegan Letscher

Why did you choose the University of Westminster?

I chose the University of Westminster because it perfectly met all the criteria I was looking for in a university. I was specifically seeking a central location to access the city’s opportunities, and Westminster's prime position in the heart of London made it an ideal choice. Additionally, I wanted a reputable MSc programme in my field of interest that would provide both rigorous academic training and practical experience, and Westminster offered a curriculum that aligned with my career goals. Furthermore, I was eager to be part of a vibrant, dynamic community.

How has your experience been studying in London?

As an international student, moving to London was initially quite daunting, given the new environment, culture, and the sheer size of the city. However, I quickly adapted and began to love everything about it—the vibrant atmosphere, diverse communities, and endless opportunities for exploration. The Marylebone campus’s fantastic location has made it easy to immerse myself in the city’s culture, as it’s perfectly situated near Regent’s Park, which offers a peaceful escape amidst the bustling city.

Tell us about your course (what have you particularly enjoyed about the programme?) 

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my MSc Economic Policy Analysis course! The diverse backgrounds of my postgrad peers from various countries bring a valuable international perspective to our coursework. Additionally, the small class sizes create an excellent environment for collaboration and discussions, enhancing my overall learning experience.

How have you found academic support as part of your studies?

All of my professors have been stellar! They demonstrated deep expertise in their fields and a genuine passion for supporting students in achieving their individual career goals and interests. They also offer additional office hours, providing valuable opportunities to ask further questions or receive assistance with research projects, making the learning experience both engaging and personalised.

Are there any stand-out facilities associated with your course?

The Bloomberg Financial Suites 1 and 2 proved to be incredibly valuable resources for my courses. Although the advanced computers were new to me, the staff was always eager to assist, providing helpful tutorials and answering my questions. Additionally, we frequently used data analysis software like STATA across various classes, which offered me essential econometric training and practical skills.

Tell us about any activities that you have undertaken outside of your course 

I'm a member of the women’s volleyball team, and I absolutely love it! Having played competitively before, I was excited to discover that the team holds open try-outs each year. We practice twice a week, participate in several tournaments, and compete in numerous games against other schools. The team has allowed me to forge many friendships with people who share my passion for volleyball. Go Dragons!

What would your advice be to someone considering studying at Westminster?

I would strongly recommend that any prospective student attend an open day if possible. As an international student, I wasn’t able to visit before enrolling, and I really wish I had! Attending an open day is a fantastic way to get familiar with the facilities, explore the campus, and learn more about the various organisations and resources available.

What's the best aspect of being a University of Westminster student?

I really value the strong sense of community that comes from spending time on campus. I've made friends in the libraries, computer labs, and even while grabbing lunch at the café each day. During finals week, I especially appreciate seeing so many friendly faces around, which provides a comforting break from my coursework and helps keep me motivated.

What was the most surprising or unexpected aspect of your Westminster experience?

The most surprising aspect of my Westminster experience was being elected by my peers as one of the course representatives, a position I didn’t even know existed before starting classes. As a course rep, I help facilitate communication between students and faculty course leaders, addressing concerns or issues related to the modules. Sometimes, this simply involves organising study groups to bring everyone together. This role has allowed me to connect more deeply with my peers and become more actively involved in my course community.