Leonor Mendonça
Name: Maria Leonor
Country: Portugal
WSS course studied: Money and Banking
Current status: Studying economics in ISCTE Business School
What encouraged you to choose to join the Warwick Summer School?
When I made the decision to apply to a summer school, my primarily objective was to seek an international experience that would not only deepen my knowledge but also to stimulate my personal growth. In Warwick, I discovered, through testimonials, a unique environment that I believed it would offer these two characteristics.
As you transitioned from the Warwick Summer School back to your studies or work, how did the skills and knowledge you gained during the three weeks help you?
Warwick proved to be a milestone in my life. From an academic perspective, it developed a critic spirit that has enhance my learning approach. As an economics student, the course money and banking provided me with valuable insights about monetary policy and financial crises, for example. Moreover, Warwick Summer School was crucial for the development of hard skills but to foster a collaborative spirit and enhancing my analytical thinking skills.
Did you build any new friendships/ connections during your time on the summer school?
During my time at the summer school, I had the privilege to establish connections with multiple people with different cultures and backgrounds. These friendships will always remain in my heart. In my opinion, participating Warwick summer school offers an exceptional opportunity to engage with people from across the globe. Initially, I was reluctant that nationality could be a barrier to establish connections, but soon realized these differences served as a catalyst to develop friendships. During these three week, I had the invaluable opportunity to learn new costumes and perspectives from all over the world, profoundly enriching my overall experience.
What was your highlight of taking part in Warwick Summer School?
Is quite a challenge to choose the most impactful moment from my time in Warwick Summer School. The accessibility of both professors and staff played a pivotal role in shaping this experience. Their promptness to help and to offer guidance was determinant for my journey in Warwick. The guest speakers shared inspirational testimonials, which strive to make us more determinant to fight for what we believe and to overcome any adversity. Additionally, the well-prepared social activities, for example the Karaoke night or the welcome dinner, allowed me to connect with fellow participants and promoted a sense of community and inter- help spirit among us.
What advice would you give to future students participating in the Warwick Summer School to get the most out of the programme?
Take the most out of this experience. Be involve in social activities, engage with your professor and participate actively in classes. Warwick Summer Schools offers you the chance to create lifetime memories, but it’s ultimately up to you to seize this opportunity and make it truly transformative.