SOAS holds a unique position in higher education, focusing on understanding histories and perspectives from Asia and Africa, as well as its relations to the West. Discussions in classes I attended were always complex , dynamic, and engaging. The student body heavily contributes to what is learnt and discussed - I highly value the passion that SOAS students hold. The university attracts broad minded people, making life at SOAS very welcoming but also fantastic for self development. That said, aspects the university can improve on are valuing said student body. The lecturers are, of course, very much in touch with us and are incredibly supporting. However, the upper level staff running the university often have moments displaying corporate-like behaviour. Is this is a surprise? No. Is it disappointing? Yes. SOAS should hold a unique place in education and we must work to preserve that. The university has also always had issues with organisation. Prior to joining SOAS, alumni had mentioned the poor organisation, and during my time there, as well as dealing with them as a graduate myself, I believe that this problem persists and is criticism widely expressed. Despite that, my time at SOAS has been wonderful and it is a shame that a large portion of it was spent during Covid. If anyone is considering SOAS, I highly recommend attending if you want to have access to quality education that focuses on decolonisation, humanities, and bridging the gap between the West and Asia and Africa, an amazing library (with access to the Senate House and UCL libraries!), and meet broad minded and passionate people.

At SOAS, studying Liberal Arts has been an exciting journey. Prospective students can expect a lot of variety in what they choose to learn. The degree is one you can cultivate to your liking. Most modules are considered open as a Liberal Arts students (hence the name - you are liberated to explore an array of subjects and areas of study). Seminars are fairly small and most lectures aren’t so big either, depending on the demand of a module/course. Lecturers are very open to office hours and actively encourage it - something I should have taken more advantage of earlier in my undergrad career (because it helps a lot). The degree itself, at least in my cohort, had small numbers. But with the nature of Liberal Arts, you have the opportunity to meet students from all departments more frequently than you would say if you studied BA History. There is a lot of reading involved with the humanities, so a couple of hours a week dedicated to reading and note-taking is important to consider. That said, hours spent in classes aren’t overbearing and the atmosphere tends to be quite relaxed (well… aside from the pressure you put on yourself during deadline weeks lol… please don’t cram).

In the heart of Bloomsbury, a vibrant and exciting central location in London. Very easy to access with Euston station only minutes away and Russell Square station being on the Piccadilly line. There are plenty of businesses in the area and surrounding areas which students may apply to for part time work. Oxford street, Covent Garden and Leicester Square are all within walking distance or a tube ride away. Holborn also has work opportunities for students.

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Good uni!

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