The Degree
All degrees are different, and it is important that you fully understand the structure of your degree and the options available to you. Make sure that you attend the departmental briefing at the start of the year and ask your tutor or supervisor if you have any questions.
The departmental websites can be found here
and it's worth finding out what will be expected from you as early as you can. You should also read all the regulations in theCalendar that pertain to your degree so that you won't be caught out and will know what to do if something goes wrong.
Don't feel trapped by the options you have chosen before the start of the year. If you start your degree and find that you would like to change to another degree, get a form from the Student Services Centre and see your personal tutor. The same process applies if you wish to change your course or class (although you do need a good reason to change classes).
Personal Tutor
Each student is assigned a personal tutor, who is supposed to oversee your academic and personal problems. It has been known for some tutors to take their students out for a drink, although in the big departments such as Economics you have done well if they remember your name.
It is your tutors' job to support you during your degree. Don't feel awkward about asking them for help and don't let them fob you off. They are not counsellors but they should take the time to either help you or refer you to someone who can, don't let them tell you otherwise.
If you don't get on with your tutor, it is possible to change by contacting your Head of Department or one of the Deans. Tutors are very much a 'mixed bag', some are good and some are terrible. But, it is worth making the effort with your tutor, as they put you in for exams, and write your job references.
Personal Development Plans
This is an important part of your time at LSE - it allows you to chart your progress, record achievements and plan for your future after LSE. The careers centre has produced a special little book that all new students should have received.
If you are a continuing student, you can pick one up from the careers centre or ask your tutor. Alternatively, click here and download one.https://www.lse.ac.uk/collections/careersService/internal/Inside/LSEPublications/PDP%20Guide.pdf
In it, you will find lots of tips on what you can do to widen your skills base. Although your tutor is not expected to be an expert on different aspects of your own development, they are suppose to encourage you and offer general guidance. Some tutors are not keen on the PDP, but as employers are more and more looking for those special 'transferable skills', push them to help you.
