What encouraged you to choose to join the Warwick Summer School?

I chose to join the Warwick Summer School because I wanted to experience a different study environment and system. It was an opportunity for me to explore whether the UK would be a suitable destination for my master's degree. Additionally, before completing my bachelor's degree, I decided to take part in the WSS program to delve deeply into topics I had previously studied, which was another motivating factor for me to participate.

After my experience at the Warwick Summer School, it provided valuable insights and experiences that solidified my decision to pursue further studies at Warwick Business School.

As you transitioned from the Warwick Summer School back to your studies, how did the skills and knowledge you gained during the three weeks help you?

The Warwick Summer School provided significant benefits beyond just academic content. As I mentioned earlier, I had the opportunity to delve into various topics through classroom discussions and active participation, making the learning experience more enjoyable and enriching. Moreover, the diverse composition of our class, including individuals from different backgrounds in terms of age, nationality, culture, and professional experience, contributed to my personal development. Interacting with such a diverse group helped me build confidence, improve my English, and enhance my communication skills. In fact, upon returning to Italy, I achieved a higher score on the IELTS test, reflecting the improvement in my language proficiency.

Additionally, the experience at WSS strengthened my problem-solving skills. Navigating through unfamiliar situations, especially upon arriving alone in the UK, exposed me to unforeseen events. However, I was fortunate to have the support of the Warwick team, who diligently worked behind the scenes to ensure a smooth program experience. This experience honed my ability to adapt and find solutions in challenging circumstances, which has proven invaluable both academically and professionally.

Did you build any new friendships/ connections during your time on the summer school?

Yes, absolutely. I never realized before how sociable I could be. Prior to starting WSS, I had doubts about my ability to make new friends, but I was pleasantly surprised. Since then, I've stayed in touch with some of the friends I made during WSS, and it's been amazing.

Through this experience, I've been able to build a network of friends that I might not have had the opportunity to connect with otherwise!

What was your highlight of taking part in Warwick Summer School?

I believe the Warwick Summer School offered us not only the necessary academic material delivered by knowledgeable professors but also special guest events where individuals shared their valuable experiences. In addition to these enriching academic opportunities, there was no shortage of recreational activities. We had the chance to participate in well-organized trips arranged by the Warwick team during our study breaks. Moreover, the program included social events like gala nights, karaoke, and dance nights, as well as sports activities such as soccer, badminton, and access to the gym. These experiences, both academic and social, collectively made my time at WSS truly memorable.

What advice would you give to future students participating in the Warwick Summer School to get the most out of the programme?

I believe that learning at the Warwick Summer School is a collaborative experience that thrives on interactions with classmates and professors. Don't hesitate to engage and share your perspectives because we all bring unique backgrounds to the table, meaning not everyone will have the same level of knowledge on certain topics. The Summer School environment is less formal than traditional university teaching, offering a space where you can truly develop your skills and discover your potential.

To make the most of the program, it's beneficial to familiarize yourself with the materials provided by the course lecturers before each class. This way, you can actively participate in discussions and clarify any doubts by asking questions during or after the lecture.

Regarding socializing, I believe the WSS team has done an excellent job of organizing diverse activities that cater to various interests and passions. These activities make it easy for students to connect and socialize, despite the limited duration of three weeks. So, my advice would be to take full advantage of these opportunities to meet new people and build lasting friendships while enjoying your time at WSS!

Trip to the Brighton seaside

Tower Bridge in London

University of Warwick Library