Bitesize New Students Guide 2019 - Practical advice and special features to sink your teeth into - LSHTM
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Bitesize
New Students
Guide 2019
Practical advice and special
features to sink your teeth into.
Passionate about LSHTM? Share your
experiences and encourage future students to
join us by becoming one of our
Student
Ambassadors
Role includes connecting with prospective
students; assisting at open days; and
contributing to our website, publications and
social media.
Contents
Find out more and apply: The tick crawling through this magazine is one of the eight gilded vectors
of disease that adorn our Keppel Street building. It has gathered vital
lshtm.ac.uk/study/ambassadors
information from our website and is now transmitting it to you in bitesize
form...
4 Offer received! ...but what happens 14 Bloomsbury: your guide to the
next? local area
Steps to take now you’ve earned your offer Where to study, eat and relax near LSHTM
While waiting for your studies to begin, why not sign
up for one of our free online courses? They cover 6 Key dates 2019-20 16 The steps along the journey
important topics linked to global health and give an The dates and structure for the academic year Key moments of the year as described by our
introductory overview at postgraduate level. students
7 Applying for a student visa
Top tips to guide you through the process 17 What our students did next
Updates from our recent graduates
8 Accommodation
Free Online
How to search for the perfect place to live 19 To PhD or not to PhD:
did Shakespeare die of cancer?
10 Living in London PhD student Matthew shares his story and advice
Advice on transport, banking, healthcare and safety
20 Getting involved
Courses
12 Celebrating 120 years of health Ideas for making the most of your time at LSHTM
innovation
Landmark moments from LSHTM’s history in our 22 Stepping out
anniversary year Our guide to the best walking routes in London
13 Read all about it
Recent research and news highlights from LSHTM Don’t forget to join our LSHTM Students
2019/20 Facebook group, where you can get
to know your future classmates, share tips
View latest courses and register: and get advice from current students:
lshtm.ac.uk/study/freeonlinecourses
facebook.com/groups/LSHTMstudents2019
When will I receive my unconditional Where do I find my reading list and
offer? timetable?
When you have met all the conditions set out in your Reading lists and Term 1 timetables will be added
offer letter, such as English language test results to lshtm.ac.uk/study/newstudents/london when
or evidence of funding, your offer will be updated available. Generally, you will not need to do much
to ‘unconditional’ confirming your place at LSHTM. reading in advance, but your programme directors
Students applying for a Tier 4 student visa will need will recommend any key texts you should read.
to hold an unconditional offer before we can issue a Students won’t be required to buy many books as
CAS. you’ll have access to everything in our Library and
online, but you may wish to purchase a few key texts
Can I start my course if I have not if suggested by your programme director.
achieved the required English language
test score? I am studying full-time, when does
Unfortunately you will not be permitted to register teaching take place?
unless you have provided original evidence that you You should be prepared to attend to attend lectures,
have achieved LSHTM’s required English language classes and, where necessary, laboratory practicals
Offer received!
test score. from 9.30 to 5pm Monday to Friday during the
teaching terms. Depending on your programme and
module selections, you may have some days or half-
How do I pay my deposit? days free for private study.
You will need to pay your £500 tuition fee deposit
by the date indicated in your offer letter in order to
secure your place on the programme. If your fees are
I am studying part-time, what days do I
being fully paid through a scholarship or LSHTM- need to attend?
Half-time study involves attending two to three days
...but what happens next?
recognised sponsor, you will be exempt from paying
the deposit provided that appropriate evidence of per week during the teaching term. Depending on
the funding has been sent to Admissions prior to the your programme and module selections, you may
payment deadline. Paid deposits will be deducted be required to attend on different days in each term
from the tuition fees invoice. and year of study. As the requirements for half-time
Gaining your offer of admission Do I need to send original documents? study can vary, we recommend contacting your
from LSHTM is a tremendous We do require original evidence of your
How do I pay my tuition fees? programme directors with any specific queries.
qualifications as stated in your offer of admission; If you are planning split-study, we recommend
achievement, so congratulations to this should be either your original award certificate Tuition fees must be paid in full before you can
contacting your programme directors to discuss
you! Now you’ll want to make sure or original final transcript. If your certificate or register for your programme. Information about
when you will take your split.
paying tuition fees can be found at lshtm.ac.uk/
you are fully prepared for the start of transcript are not in English, you must also provide
study/feepayment
original award certified translations. We are unable Please note: many of the questions and answers on
your programme, so you can use this to accept certified copies. these pages relate to programmes where applications
guide to keep track of everything. Can I defer my offer? are made through LSHTM. If you have applied for
When do I need to send my documents? If your circumstances change and you are unable to one of our joint programmes through King’s College
We advise you send your documents by the take up your offer, you can request to defer for up London or Royal Veterinary College, please also refer
deadline in your offer letter to ensure a smooth to one academic year only. You will need to email to information provided by those institutions.
What do I need to registration process. You will not be able to enrol
on your programme until the requested documents
admissions@lshtm.ac.uk confirming you wish to
defer and your reasons for doing so. We cannot
register? have been received. Students applying for a Tier 4
student visa will need to submit original documents
confirm your offer is deferred until the deposit fee is
paid by the given deadline. Flshtm.ac.uk/study/newstudents/london
well in advance of their programme start date to
Online registration will take place from ensure sufficient time is available to complete the What happens during the first week?
September onwards. You will need to bring visa process. Students requiring a Confirmation of The first week of the programme includes a
the following items with you to complete Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for their visa should compulsory orientation programme for all students
registration when you arrive at LSHTM: send their financial evidence along with their to introduce them to LSHTM and their degree
completed CAS request form to the Visa Enquiries programme. Lectures and classes will begin the
team between 24 June and 23 August (see p7). following week.
Your passport(s) as we need to check
your full legal name, date of birth and
nationality / immigration status When will my documents be returned?
Students requiring a Tier 4 Student visa will have
Any outstanding documentation as their documents returned by courier as quickly as Essential app: Well, not strictly an
requested by the Admissions team possible. For other students, documents will be kept app, but it’s worth saving the LSHTM
safely by Registry for collection upon registration Mobile Page (m.lshtm.ac.uk) for quick
unless otherwise requested. shortcuts to our network
International students only - your
current visa or leave to remain (non-EEA
nationals)
4 5
Applying for a student
Key dates 2019-20 visa: top 5 tips
Term 1 23 September - 13 December Applying for a student visa can feel stressful, but it’s important you pay close
attention to your specific immigration requirements and follow procedure. Our
Welcome Week 23 - 27 September tips help break down the process:
Term 1 Modules 30 September - 1 November
1 Do you need a visa? 4 Check what documents you
Reading Week 4 - 8 November Each country has different visa requirements, and need
depending on your country of origin you might need All visa applications require you to provide additional
Term 1 Modules 11 November - 13 December a visa to enter the UK. So while EU students do documents, which will vary according to the type of
not require a visa to study in the UK, most non-EU student visa you’re applying for. Documents you may
students will have to apply for one. This is why we’ve need to provide include:
developed a useful tool to help you see whether you
Winter Break 14 December - 12 January need a visa: lshtm.ac.uk/study/visacheck • A valid passport (must be the same passport you
used when applying to LSHTM)
Term 2 starts on 6 January for students studying MSc Immunology of Infectious Diseases, MSc Medical Entomology for
2 What type of visa do you • Original evidence of qualification(s)
Disease Control, MSc Medical Microbiology, MSc Medical Parasitology and MSc Tropical Medicine & International Health, need? • Visa application fee
who have written examinations that week. All other MSc programmes have written examinations in June. • Two recent passport photographs
There are different types of visa for studying in the • Photocopies (for the visa application centre) of all
UK. These vary according to the type and length of documents used for your visa application
Term 2 13 January - 27 March your programme; most MSc students will need a • Financial evidence - you will need to show
Tier 4 (General) student visa. For research degree that you can pay for your tuition fees and living
students, the type of visa needed will depend on the costs. We strongly recommend our tool to
Mon - Wed (12:30) Wed (14:00) - Fri length of time spent in the UK and the Visa Enquiries check whether your financial evidence meets
13 January - 14 February Team will provide you with further guidance. If your the requirements for a visa application before
C1 Module C2 Module study plans change, please let the Visa Enquiries sending it to the Visa Enquiries Team:
Team know as soon as possible as this may help you lshtm.ac.uk/study/visafinancecheck
Reading Week 17 - 21 February
to avoid visa problems later on.
D1 Module D2 Module 24 February - 27 March 3 Apply early 5 Knowledge of English
If English language is a condition of your offer, you
It can take some time for your visa application to be should arrange to take an English test. Test centres
Spring Break 28 March - 19 April processed, and the number of appointments may be can get very busy during the summer so you should
limited, so it is important that you apply early. If your book as quickly as possible. If you are unsure of
visa isn’t ready in time, you simply won’t be able to which tests are accepted by LSHTM, please check
enter the UK in time to start your programme. Double-
Term 3 20 April - 21 September checking you have the right documents and planning
lshtm.ac.uk/study/englishfaqs
early will give you more time to get ready and make
20 April - 22 May the whole process infinitely less stressful. Extra advice: make sure you contact the Visa
Revision/Project E Module
Enquiries Team straight away if there are any delays
Examinations Early June F lshtm.ac.uk/study/immigration to your arrival into the UK or if your plans change.
Summer project submission Early September
End of MSc studies 21 September
Key information
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
applications will be open 24 June - 23 August
Reading weeks & holidays
Contacts:
These breaks in teaching are intended for private study, but of course
you’ll also need to relax. Many students use them as an opportunity to • General queries on visa applications:
visit home, or explore other parts of the UK and Europe. visa-enquiries@lshtm.ac.uk
• All CAS-related enquiries:
casrequests@lshtm.ac.uk
6 7
Where do our
79 students live?
Accommodation 46
N4, N5,
N7, N19
32
This map shows the number of students
living in the most popular postcode areas
in London for 2018-19 students
60 NW1 N1
44
NW2, NW3,
Considering the size of London, finding somewhere to live may seem
overwhelming, but we have plenty of advice and resources to help make
NW5, NW6
14
your search easier. Student accommodation in London falls into two main 12 140 EC1
E1, E2, E3
29
WC1
categories: private accommodation and halls of residence W1W
W2
Private accommodation
Tips for private accommodation:
Many students choose private accommodation as it
is widely available. Prices vary depending on the • Unless the property is managed by 17 WC1: Bloomsbury, Holborn, Russell Square (LSHTM is in WC1)
area, transport zone and size of the property/ University of London Housing Services SE1
N4, N5, N7, N19: Finsbury Park, Highbury, Holloway, Archway
room. As a basic guide, the further out you live, the (ULHS), make sure you visit before
cheaper it will be and a 30-45 minute commute is signing a contract or transferring money NW2, NW3, NW5, NW6: Kilburn, Hampstead, Kentish Town
considered very normal in London. We recommend NW1: King’s Cross, Camden, Regent’s Park
• Visit the area both during the day and at
25
you view any private accommodation in person E1, E2, E3: Whitechapel, Bethnal Green, Mile End
before signing a contract, to make sure it is night to confirm you like it and feel safe N1: Canonbury, Islington, Shoreditch
everything promised in the advert and that you like • Do not pay the deposit before seeing SE5, SW9 W2: Paddington, Bayswater
the area. the contract. If you are asked to pay a SE5, SW9: Camberwell, Denmark Hill, Brixton
‘holding deposit’ to reserve a room, get SE1: Waterloo, London Bridge, Elephant & Castle
Another option to consider is University of London proof of receipt in writing Other popular areas further away: N3: Finchley (32); E17: Walthamstow (15); E14: Limehouse, Canary EC1: Clerkenwell, Farrindon
Student Homes. These are individual rooms in
properties managed by University of London
• Get an appointment with ULHS to Wharf (12); SW2: Tulse Hill (12); N17: Tottenham (12); N16: Stoke Newington (11); E8: Hackney (10)
W1W: Fitzrovia
Housing Services (ULHS) and are ideal for students
have your contract checked by trained
advisers
looking for a reasonably priced house share. The Halls of residence
properties are within easy commuting distance • If you can’t get a UK guarantor, see if a
of LSHTM, do not require a UK-based financial landlord will accept a few months’ rent LSHTM has 45 rooms in University of London
guarantor and can be applied to from overseas. in advance (Intercollegiate) Halls, which are student halls
shared by the different institutions that make up
• Make sure you have access to at least the University of London. These are well worth
two months’ rent (one month’s rent is
F lshtm.ac.uk/study/accommodation usual for a deposit)
considering as you can apply in advance and
have the peace of mind that your accommodation
is sorted before you arrive in London. The halls
are close to LSHTM, have a ready-made student
community and prices are very reasonable,
especially for their location in central London. After
Halls of residence
the application deadline, a waiting list opens in early
September each year, so you still have a chance of
getting a room if you did not the first time around.
There are also private halls of residence located all
Tips for halls of residence:
Some helpful resources:
over London, which are another convenient option • Use our accommodation pages and the ULHS
• ULHS have a housing database, a you can arrange before you arrive. Private halls website for a list of halls, including those which
list of registered letting agents, ‘find range from basic, no-frills type accommodation, allow couples and families
a flatmate’ message board and run often at very reasonable cost; to modern luxury
house-hunting events student halls, which are more like a high-end hotel • Consider looking at halls beyond travel Zone 2
(and this is reflected in the price). as these are cheaper and have good transport
• ULHS Private Housing Guide links
• Popular flat-sharing websites include • Ask about being allocated a room close to other
SpareRoom, MoveFlat and Roomgo postgraduate students
• Our Accommodation Helpdesk will be • Check your payment plan as you may have to
open during orientation, with former pay for several months up front
students on hand to guide you on
ways to find accommodation, areas of • If a hall is full, ask about waiting lists and keep
London and transport in contact as spaces do become available
8 International Hall 9
Typical University of London Student Home
Healthcare Thinking about wellbeing
Living in London
Most students are eligible for healthcare under the You probably don’t need us to tell you, but a
National Health Service (NHS). NHS treatment is postgraduate degree can be an intense experience.
free but you will need to pay for most prescribed That’s why it’s so important to take care of your own
medication at a standard charge, currently £9. The wellbeing. The tips below may seem obvious, but
most important thing to do once you know where they can be easy to forget, and can really make a
you will be living is to register with a local doctor/ difference to the enjoyment of your studies.
general practitioner (commonly referred to as a GP)
to enable you access to NHS healthcare. A healthy body for a healthy mind - eat sensibly.
Transport Staying safe Healthy food has a positive effect on our mood, and
Dentists operate separately from GPs and you can excercise releases those good endorphins. Check
London can seem big and confusing, but it has London is generally safe and we very rarely hear of
register with a dentist anywhere. Eye tests are out our favourite London walks on p22-24.
good transport links so is easy to get around once students having problems. The most likely crime you
provided by optometrists based within optician
you get the hang of it. might fall victim to is pickpocketing, but taking
stores. Don’t forget to sleep - lack of sleep not only causes
some basic precautions can reduce the risk of this
Start to familiarise yourself with the London happening to you. Make sure your bag is not a target tiredness but has also been associated with mental
EEA students will need to obtain an EHIC (European health problems. Try to get the recommended seven
Underground (Tube) map as this will help you figure in public places like transport, bars or on the street
Health Insurance Card) from their home country to nine hours sleep and be ready for the day ahead.
out where everything is. The closest stations to by keeping it close to you. Likewise, do not leave
before coming to the UK.
LSHTM are Goodge Street, Russell Square, Warren valuable items like laptops unattended. If you can
Street, Euston Square and Tottenham Court Road. resist the temptation, don’t have your smartphone Take time to relax - many students will juggle
on show when you are out and about, or thieves may Mental health multiple responsibilities whilst studying, so it’s
crucial that you build in time to chill out. London has
We recommend you get an Oyster card as soon as take the chance to grab it.
GPs can advise on medication for mental health much to offer, so why don’t you try something new?
possible when you arrive in London as this is far
conditions, with referral to a psychiatrist if
cheaper than buying cash tickets for the Tube. In the UK you are not required to carry around any
necessary. If you think it’s likely you will need Go offline - research shows too much time on
London buses do not accept cash, so if you want to form of ID. Leave your passport safely at home, but
ongoing mental health support, we advise you to social media can have a negative effect on our
travel by bus, an Oyster card is essential. make a copy of it (and your visa if you have one) just
contact the Student Advice & Counselling Service. mental health. Having a “digital detox” can improve
in case, or take a photo and keep it on your phone.
LSHTM also subscribes to Nightline, a confidential productivity, sleep and reduce your stress levels.
Alternatively, if you have a UK-issued contactless
student-run phone line offering emotional support
bank card this can be used instead and you will be
charged the same as an Oyster card. Banking and practical information. Last but not least, don’t be afraid to seek help - our
Student Advice & Counselling Service is here to
F lshtm.ac.uk/study/transport
LSHTM does not have a relationship with any
particular bank; we recommend therefore that
F lshtm.ac.uk/study/healthcare support you during your studies.
you choose the bank which best suits your needs.
Banking letters will be provided by the Registry
once you have registered on your programme.
Full-time students get 30% off
weekly, monthly and annual
Support, information and specialist services to
It’s a good idea to make sure you have access to
London travel cards once funds to pay for the first few weeks’ living expenses,
help you make the most of your time at LSHTM.
registered at LSHTM including accommodation start-up costs, as
Student Advice
opening a bank account can take up to a month.
F lshtm.ac.uk/study/banking
Typical documents required to open
& Counselling
a UK bank account:
•
•
Photo ID (e.g. passport)
Letter issued by LSHTM stating that you
Service
are registered Supporting students with:
• Proof of a UK address (e.g a letter from • Disabilities and dyslexia
the landlord or a utility bill)
• Accommodation advice
• Student life in London
• Counselling and mindfulness
Essential app: Citymapper is a must-have to
help plan the fastest and most convenient If you have any questions or would like to discuss anything with us, contact
journey by public transport, cycling or walking studentadvice@lshtm.ac.uk or studentcounselling@lshtm.ac.uk
10
Celebrating 120 years of
health innovation Read all about it
2019 marks the 120th anniversary of LSHTM. This timeline shows Research and news highlights from LSHTM which have made
just a few landmark moments in our history and some of our major headlines around the world in recent months
contributions to health over the past 120 years.
More needed to reduce low birthweight Training advocates to improve mental
School founded (May 2019) health of abused women (November 2018)
Sir Patrick Manson establishes
1899 Royal Charter More than 20 million babies were born with a low Specially trained advocates could improve the
birthweight, according to a study by LSHTM, WHO mental health of women experiencing violence and
the London School of Tropical The School is granted a Royal
and UNICEF. Analysis showed that while almost abuse, according to new research. The trial showed
>>>
Medicine in the East London Charter and becomes the
three quarters were born in Southern Asia and that women who received the intervention showed
docks. London School of Hygiene &
sub-Saharan Africa, the problem of low birthweight reduced symptoms of psychological distress,
Tropical Medicine.
also remains substantial in high-income countries in depression and post-traumatic stress.
Europe, North America and Australia.
Keppel Street opens 1924 Women Leaders in Globel Health
LSHTM moves to its iconic ‘Test and Treat’ reduces new HIV Conference (November 2018)
building in Bloomsbury. 1929 Kwashiorkor identified infections (April 2018) LSHTM hosted the 2nd Annual Women Leaders in
Dame Cicely Williams recognises
The PopART trial in Zambia and South Africa found Global Health conference. Nearly 900 participants
1933 kwashiorkor, a condition of
that HIV infections in southern Africa could be from more than 70 countries heard from global
First RCT advanced malnutrition, as a
reduced substantially by offering entire communities health leaders in a series of talks and panel
>>
disease.
The MRC Streptomycin in voluntary HIV testing, and immediately referring discussions, on topics ranging from mentoring and
Tuberculosis Trials took place those who test positive for HIV for treatment in line political leadership to media and new technologies.
at LSHTM in 1948. This study Seminal report links with local guidelines.
is generally accepted as the 1948 smoking & lung cancer Sniffer dogs could detect malaria
world’s first randomised control Publication of a preliminary Gene editing, predatory bacteria and (October 2018)
trial. 1950 report by Sir Richard Doll and zebrafish (February 2019) Research led by LSHTM found that dogs were
Sir Austin Bradford Hill linking Experts from LSHTM are using pioneering new able to scent malaria in samples of socks worn by
>>>
smoking with lung cancer. technology and zebrafish embryos to understand children infected with the malaria parasite. The
AIDS research how bacteria spread, and to develop creative ways findings could one day lead to the first rapid and
LSHTM’S first research on AIDS to disrupt the spread of infection. Groups of fish non-invasive test for malaria.
in the Medical Microbiology Early trials of insecticide undergo gene editing to allow the study of different
Department, surveying for treated nets biological responses to infection. BMI associated with deaths from most
1983
antibodies for the HTLV virus in Prof Chris Curtis leads some causes (October 2018)
various primate species. of the first trials of insecticide Readiness for sex is about more than age Body Mass Index is linked to risk of death from every
1985
treated nets to control the (January 2019) major cause except transport accidents, according
1990 spread of malaria. to research led by LSHTM which suggests a BMI of
A substantial proportion of young people in
Sex survey launched between 21-25kg/m2 is associated with the lowest
Britain are not ready for their first sexual activity -
risk of dying from cancer and heart disease.
LSHTM launches the first whatever their age - and lose their virginity under
Gates Award
>>
National Survey of Sexual circumstances that are incompatible with positive
Attitudes and Lifestyles, which LSHTM is awarded the Gates
Award for Global Health for its
sexual health, according to a new study by LSHTM. F lshtm.ac.uk/news
has become one of the world’s
largest and most comprehensive long-standing contributions to
studies of sexual behaviour and global health. LSHTM is both the
2009
lifestyles. first academic institution to win
the award and the first British In other news....
winner.
>
Ebola outbreak response Ranking success!
LSHTM sets up a volunteer
response register for staff, 2014 MRC Units join LSHTM LSHTM has retained its position as first in
students and alumni to assist The MRC Unit The Gambia and Europe and eighth in the world for research impact
partner organisations tackle the 2018 MRC/UVRI Uganda Research in sciences in the 2019 CWTS Leiden Ranking,
Ebola outbreak in West Africa. Unit formally join LSHTM, in for the proportion of its total publications ranking
LSHTM is now pioneering work partnerships that will boost in the top 10% of most cited research. We’ve also
on Ebola vaccines. research capacity in Africa and been ranked top UK University for open access and Women Leaders in Global Health Conference
worldwide. gender diversity in research - a double celebration!
12 13
Passionate about access to education?
Bloomsbury: your guide
to the local area Student
LSHTM is located in Bloomsbury, an area with a rich academic,
medical and literary history, and characterised by beautfiul buildings
and garden squares Callers
Places to study Free lunch - yes, really Earn over £500 calling alumni and gain valuable
As well as our own library and computer rooms,
you will also have access to neighbouring college If you think there’s no such thing as a free lunch, experience and skills raising vital funds to support
libraries, including Senate House library in the think again! Most days, the Hare Krishna rickshaw students like you
imposing 1930s building right next to LSHTM. appears outside SOAS, offering a free, hot
vegetarian lunch to anyone who doesn’t mind From 4 November – 1 December 2019 a team of
During the warmer months, the many garden waiting in line. The food is donated by supermarkets selected student callers will phone alumni to catch up
squares of the area such as Russell Square, Gordon and wholesalers, and if you want to be even more
and ask them to support the LSHTM fund
Square and the Malet Street Gardens provide an sustainable you can bring your own plate and fork.
ideal setting for studying with a picnic.
To be a part of this exciting campaign apply by 21
If you prefer to study with a coffee or slice of cake, Places to eat October for interviews on 23 October
try Store Street Espresso, Koox, Bea’s of Many students bring their lunch or grab something
Bloomsbury, Fork Deli Patisserie or Black Sheep from our excellent Refectory, but if you want to eat Find out more and apply: bit.ly/2HMIE6I
Coffee, all within 10 minutes’ walk of LSHTM. out there are plenty of quick and healthy options
There’s also Seacole Social, our very own café locally. Every Thursday, you’ll also find a Farmers’
located beside our Tavistock Place building. Market in Torrington Square, selling a variety of farm
produce, cakes, pastries and hot food to take away.
Student Central
Places to visit
As a student of LSHTM, you will automatically become
The British Museum is undoubtedly one of the best Tote bags, mugs, stationery and accessories
a member of Student Central, based just around the
corner on Malet Street. It is home to the University museums in the country, housing art and artefacts will be available at pop-up sales and online
from the beginning of civilisation to the present
of London’s clubs and societies, so whether you
day. Make sure you take advantage of the fact that throughout the year
are interested in dance, drama, art, sports, music or
religious and cultural groups, there will be a society it is – literally – just around the corner from LSHTM.
for you! Student Central also has a café, bar, gym, We are also very close to the Wellcome Collection,
swimming pool and student shop. which puts on fantastic and free exhibitions
connecting science, medicine and art.
Essential app: use AroundMe to find local
points of interest around LSHTM or wherever
else you go LSHTM
Gift Shop
Senate House
Student Central
giftstore.lshtm.ac.uk
14
Lectures & classes Studying in labs Groups & societies
The steps along
“The practical/seminar groups “Lab sessions are exciting as “I have been part of the growing
have the best approach they are they provide an opportunity to LGBT+ group and am also part
interactive and engaging not only apply concepts presented in of the new LSHTM Missing
the journey
for peer-learning but also as an lectures, acquire technical skills, Maps group which is a daughter
opportunity to meet and network and discuss practical research society of the larger project run
and build relationships with other problems.” by MSF and others.”
students from other programs
Kelvin Abuga, Kenya, Scott Tytheridge, UK, Medical
across LSHTM.” Immunology of Infectious Diseases Entomology for Disease Control
Our students guide you along the path you’ll take with their Hyacinthe Mushumbamwiza, Rwanda,
Public Health for Development
memories and advice from key moments at LSHTM
F For more student stories and advice:
blogs.lshtm.ac.uk/students
Examinations
“The organisation of the exam
days was well managed; in
>> 23
Sept
>>> >> particular, a late request of mine
regarding seating in the exam
>>>
room was kindly granted with no
hassle.”
Amber Tickle, Australia,
Public Health
>> >>>
Summer project
Graduation
First day at LSHTM “It is wonderful walking across >> “Have at least a rough idea of the
area you plan to work on when
the stage with all your friends, you join LSHTM. The first term
“I was quite anxious: new school, faculty, and family cheering you is busy, so if you have an idea of
Receiving offer Accommodation new country, new friends. It along. The excitement level for what you want to work on your
“I was happy to secure a place helped taking one step at a time. what the future has in store is tutor can point you in the right
“I started looking when I arrived
in one of the world’s leading Everything turns out fine at the
>
in mid-September. It can be through the roof!” direction of supervisors.”
universities. As an international end. You will absolutely love the
difficult as lots of international Julia Liguori, USA, Catherine Odhiambo, Kenya,
student, LSHTM’s application experience!” Nutrition for Global Health
students arrive in London around Global Mental Health
process was the most satisfying.” Sara Rivera Molina, Honduras,
that time, so my advice is to start
Priyanka Shrestha, Nepal, early!” Control of Infectious Diseases
Control of Infectious Diseases
Ilhame Ouansafi, Morocco/Canada,
Public Health for Development
16 17
What our students To PhD or not to PhD:
did next did Shakespeare die of cancer?
From primary care to policy development to further research, our graduates Matthew Smith from the UK describes his research and shares his advice for a
go on to a variety of distinguished careers. We’ve caught up with a few recent successful first year of PhD study
graduates to find out the first steps they’ve taken since leaving LSHTM
T
hat is the question. Shakespeare, the renowned however the timeline is adaptable guidance you can
“ After graduating I went back to public health
and preventive medicine residency training in
Montreal. Working in public health, I have been
“ I took a position as a research assistant in the
Department of Epidemiology at the University of
Colorado. I was well-prepared to conduct my own
17th century writer, died unexpectedly after a
merry meeting with his fellows. Four centuries
treat as motivation. Logically, your literature review
will highlight the general end-goal of your PhD; as you
later, explanations on the cause of his death are still advance, you will anticipate what is achievable given
brought to using the skills that I acquired at LSHTM analyses, and have a few first-author papers in being formulated – the latest of which is a rare cancer the time available to you.
on a daily basis: occasionally even going back to the pipeline towards publication. I also applied for of the tear duct known as Mikulicz Syndrome. But can LSHTM is active in its support for student
my notes or dropping a quick message to LSHTM medical school and was thrilled to be accepted to the length of his survival give some indication as to development: both academically and socially. There
friends to get a second opinion on things that fall in the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine. I whether he had this disease? may be a high work load, but it is important to seize
their area of expertise. LSHTM delivered on all that it directly attribute my success in this process to my I am a biostatistician, having started my career with opportunities outside of your working routine. For
promised both from the skills that I acquired and the time at LSHTM. 100% worth the time and effort.” a degree in mathematics from Nottingham and the example, I would not have understood a particular
network that I created while there.” Kate Lowe, USA, Epidemiology MSc Medical Statistics at LSHTM. characteristic of a cancer cell had I not attended a
Yassen Tcholakov, Canada, Public Health The objective of my PhD is to broaden and deepen transferable skills workshop. I have also developed
“ My MSc ended on 30th September and on 1st
October I joined the University of Liverpool as
“ I got an offer to join the childhood TB project at
MRC Unit The Gambia at LSHTM immediately
after turning in my summer project. My days involve
my understanding of the survival of patients with
different types of cancer, particularly non-Hodgkin
useful friendships through attending optional
MSc modules and as a member of the Centre for
lymphoma. I am using advanced statistical methods Statistical Methodology.
a research assistant. It took less than 24 hours a combination of clinical work, field visits and to investigate the effects arising from a range of The most influential piece of advice I have received
to change my status from graduate student to engaging policymakers. The wholesome experience risk factors on the chances of survival from cancer. is to be holistic but have depth: I would recommend
researcher on a project relevant to my course! I I got from the MSc, including the modules in My long-term goal is to establish clear and patient- this to any PhD student. In the first year, you will settle
am working with collaborators on mental health of epidemiology and statistics, and interaction with centred treatment pathways that will enable all into a rhythm of your daily activities and understand
Congolese refugees staying in Rwanda & Uganda. It experienced classmates, have proven most useful in cancer patients to receive their optimal treatment and your area in greater detail through literature reviews.
is a dream job and without the grounding of my MSc making my classroom-to-field transition smooth.” therefore experience their optimal survival outcome. Your research topic may change as you acquire
it would not have been possible.” Esin Nkereuwem, Nigeria, Public Health for knowledge, and you will may need to adapt your
M Tasdik Hasan, Bangladesh, Global Mental Health Development
“Be holistic but have depth” research question accordingly. The upgrading
process will then be an opportunity to show what is
“ Since completing the MSc I have been working
for healthcare company IQVIA. I found the skills
I learned have helped a lot: programming in SAS,
“ I currently work at the Animal Plant and Health
Agency as a Virology Laboratory Scientist. I
work with a number of viruses and surveillance
The first year of my PhD, via a literature review,
the current awareness to your chosen field, where
you plan to take the research, and what you want
involved strengthening my understanding of the to find out. To achieve this: follow through with
for instance, is something we commonly do in programmess in the UK and with some international current research and knowledge in my area. It is your timeline, communicate with your supervisors,
my workplace so the fact that we studied SAS collaborations. The practical and taught elements during this time that most students begin to develop collaborate with other leading researchers in your
programming language was really helpful.” of my MSc provided me with a solid foundation on their main research question; and build a report of area, attend lectures, and allow yourself to socialise
Lori Cirneanu, Romania, Medical Statistics which to pursue a career in scientific research.” the current knowledge to identify potential gaps in and sink into the diverse culture here at LSHTM!
Elisabeth Waller, UK, Medical Microbiology the research area. Towards the later stages of the first
year, each student will formally present their progress
s during an ‘upgrading process’. While this formal
examination can be a daunting affair, it was soothing
Careers Service to hear from a previous PhD student that it is an
opportunity to gain crucial advice from experienced
“It is
Our Careers Service is available to you throughout
your studies and for two years after you graduate: researchers in your area. important
Building rapport with your supervisors helps
enormously towards achieving your PhD objectives. to seize
• 1:1 career discussions They will be well practiced in balancing allowing you
space to develop your independent research skills
opportunities
• Job applications advice
• Practice interviews
and ensuring you are on track to complete your PhD. outside of your
I meet my supervisors regularly; they openly engage
• Lunchtime workshops with my questions and offer invaluable advice. You working routine”
will also have the prospect of establishing your
• Employer & alumni talks and panel discussions advisory panel, who are usually subject-specific
• Careers fairs researchers who provide further advice.
A strategy for my first year revolved around a clear
• Alumni/student networking events timeline, which I established early. You may come
across hurdles that hinder your planned progression;
F blogs.lshtm.ac.uk/students
Read Matthew’s full story:
18
F lshtm.ac.uk/study/careersw
Global Health Lecture Series School Centres
Getting involved
Each week, leading experts from LSHTM present
summaries and debates of key global health issues, LSHTM is home to 14 multidisciplinary Centres,
ranging from outbreak response to gender-based each facilitating cross-faculty research in a
violence to alcohol & tobacco policy. This series, specialised field. The Centres also organise
along with the many other special lectures and seminars and events, and many are keen to have
events at LSHTM, offer potential for you to expand students take on an active role in their work. By
your network and may lead to summer project or joining the Centres, you will be able to access a
Suggestions for making the most of your time at LSHTM career opportunities. network of peers with shared interests, a central hub
of academic excellence and the chance to expand
Students’ Representative Council (SRC)
F lshtm.ac.uk/events your career skills through active involvement.
The SRC is an independent, student-led body that represents the Friends of MSF F lshtm.ac.uk/centres
interests of master’s and research degree students at LSHTM.
Attend conferences, take part in simulation events,
host guest speakers and fundraise for a great cause!
The SRC Executive consists of five officers, elected by fellow
Do you want to be the next President, Secretary or
students, who represent student body interests to LSHTM’s
Treasurer?
management, as well as co-ordinating student clubs, societies
and social acitivities:
F Find out more: email lshtmfomsf@gmail.com
• President
• VP, Communications & Activities Student-Led Careers Seminars
• VP, Finance & Operations Our Careers Service hires students to work on
• VP, Research Degrees several projects, including running student-led
• VP, Taught Programmes seminars where students share their career journeys
with each another. So if you want to help boost the
Nominations for the SRC Executive will open shortly after you network and career opportunities of your fellow
register for your programme, with voting taking place during students by organising seminars, look out for
October. application details shortly after you register. And if
you have worked in a popular organisation others
F Read more about the SRC and what it means to be involved:
blogs.lshtm.ac.uk/students
might dream of joining, have run your own enterprise
or otherwise have an interesting story to share, you
can also get involved as one of the speakers!
F Thinking about standing for the SRC? Email the current team
with your questions: srcexec@lshtm.ac.uk
Mentor Young Scientists
If you want to inspire the next generation of public
and global health researchers while honing your
communication skills for a general audience, then
Student Ambassadors join our award-winning Young Scientists Programme
Did you meet any of our students at an open day, or as a mentor, helping students aged 14-18 develop
contact them by email? Did their advice convince and carry out fun and challenging public health
you to join LSHTM? Do you want to help our next research projects.
generation of students? If so, apply to become one
of our student ambassadors!
F lshtm.ac.uk/youngscientists
The role includes:
Student Callers
• Connecting with prospective students via email Do you want to earn over £500 in four weeks calling
and online chats to talk about your experiences alumni? Each year, a selected group of students
• Helping at our open days and other events are trained and paid to telephone former LSHTM
• Giving tours to prospective students who visit students in the evenings and at weekends to raise
LSHTM vital funds to support scholarships. This is a rare
• Contributing to our brochures, website, blogs, opportunity to find out more about the career paths
videos and social media of alumni and provides valuable work experience,
• Participating in student focus groups as well as ensuring the most talented scientists are
To get involved in this fun and rewarding role, apply
“For me, being a student ambassador is a able to study with us, regardless of their financial
Start your own society!
great way to give back to, and be engaged background. The campaign will run on campus for
by 11 October. four weeks from 2 November – 1 December.
with the LSHTM community.” From academic discussion forums to language
exchanges to sports clubs – whatever your passion,
F lshtm.ac.uk/study/ambassadors 2018-19 Student Ambassador F Find out more and apply by 21 October you’ll find someone to share it with!
20 21Marshes & Meadows
Stepping out North London Start: Tottenham Hale, End: Rectory Road
This nature walk makes you feel like you’re far
away from the hustle and bustle of the city, without
leaving Zone 3. Begin by taking the Victoria Line to
3 miles
Tottenham Hale and following River Lea down past
wildlife reserves bursting with life: meadows, trees,
reservoirs and a whole host of birds can all be found
here. Go off-piste at Walthamstow Marshes and
wander the footpaths, or stick to the river path and
One of the best ways to explore London and its surroundings is on foot. We’ve admire the narrowboats chugging lazily past. When
put together some of our favorite routes for walking around the city. From you come to Springfield Park, make your way to The
urban strolls to wild wanderings, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy! Crooked Billet at Clapton where you can find some
great pub grub at a reasonable price.
F Full route map
4 miles
5 miles Best of the West
West London Start: Ladbroke Grove, End: Marble Arch
London Landmarks This route takes you past some of west London’s
top features. Start at Portobello Road and its famous
Central London Start: Westminster, End: Tower Hill antiques market, where you can also recreate
scenes from Notting Hill outside the bookshop that
This classic central London route takes you on a
inspired the film. Continue towards Holland Park,
five-mile stroll past some of the city’s most iconic and experience St. Paul’s Cathedral up close. Make
pausing in the tranquil Kyoto Gardens and trying to
landmarks. Starting at Big Ben, wander over your way back across the river at Southwark Bridge
spot the park’s resident peacocks, before checking air head north into Hyde Park, the largest Royal
Westminster Bridge for a brilliant view of the Houses for a city view from a different angle, and if you’re
out an exhibition at the Design Museum. Park in London, where you can ride a pedalo on
of Parliament from the south side of the River hungry, try the free samples and gourmet delicacies
Then stroll down High Street Kensington, taking the Serpentine lake, watch hobbyists performing
Thames. Saunter along the South Bank, taking in the of Borough Market. Wind up with a visit to the
a worthwhile detour down Exhibition Road – the everything from salsa dancing to disco roller-blading,
colourful street performers and global food stalls - 900-year-old Tower of London, via Tower Bridge,
Science Museum, Natural History Museum and or just chill on one of the many lawns. Don’t forget to
perhaps pausing for a ride on the famous London and a well-deserved drink at St. Katherine Docks –
Victoria & Albert Museum can all be found along stop and admire the Royal Albert Hall on your way.
Eye. Once you’ve taken in all the art you can handle we recommend the characterful Dickens Inn.
here, so you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes
at the Tate Modern and admired Shakespeare’s
Globe Theatre, cross over the Millennium Bridge F Full route map to exhibits. Once you’re ready for some fresh F Full route map
22 234 miles
The East End Market Trail The Southern Explorer
East London Start: Liverpool Street South London Start: Brixton, End: Forest Hill
End: Cambridge Health/Mile End
Peaceful parks and multicultural foodie spots line this four-mile hike which
Explore the urban landscape on this three-mile takes you up and down through some of the most scenic parts of south
tour of one of London’s most vibrant areas. Starting 3 miles London. You’ll need some energy for this one so start with a good brunch
from trendy Shoreditch, make your way through at Brixton Village - there’s lots of options but we love Station 26, which
Old Spitalfields Market where you’ll find arts, crafts has an entirely gluten-free menu. This multicultural area also has plenty of
and more in the restored Victorian buildings. Next, quirky shops, bars, live music and an old-fashioned cinema. Once you’ve
meander down Brick Lane with its independent finished eating and exploring, head up Railton Road towards Herne Hill,
vintage shops, leather goods and quirky cafés. Grab a pretty village-like area with a lovely Sunday farmer’s market selling
a bagel from one of the famous shops (we like the everything from vegan food to antique maps to pottery to baby clothes.
salt beef and pickle), pick up a retro bargain and Across the street is Brockwell Park - home to an open-air lido swimming
head to the Nomadic Garden, a community initiative pool (some say cold, we say invigorating) a miniature railway and fantastic
transformed by volunteers into allotments and art cityscapes. Head west towards pretty and leafy Dulwich Park and the
studios. If you haven’t seen enough flora and fauna Picture Gallery which sits on its west side. From there, it’s just a short
yet, then check out Columbia Flower Market and walk to the Horniman, a free hilltop museum complete with an aquarium,
haggle for a houseplant to brighten up your room, or musical instruments and a butterfly house. There’s a great view from the
visit nearby Hackney City Farm where you can see gardens, too. After all that you’ll be ready for another snack, so settle in for
animals up close and experience the countryside some tea and cake at a cosy café in Forest Hill.
in the heart of the city. Make your way north and
cross the canal at Broadway Market, where you can
browse bookshops and gift stalls, or get a coffee to
F Full route map
enjoy canal-side. Finally, follow the leafy canal tow-
path to Victoria Park, finishing at the Pavilion Café
with its boating lake views. Well done, you made it!
F Full route map
Epic Epping Forest
6 miles Outside London Start: Chingford
Did you know you can venture to nearly 6,000-acres
of ancient woodland with only a 40-minute Tube
journey from central London? So pack a backpack
of your favourite snacks, bring some friends and get
ready to breathe in the fresh air in the magnificent
Epping Forest! Our suggestion for a six-mile
circular route is to start at Chingford, at the top of
the London Overground, and follow the woodland
path through Chingford Plain to Connaught Water,
delving deep into the forest and passing tea huts,
rope swings, a visitor centre and brook along the
way. But there are plenty of other routes you can
take of varying lengths which cover different parts of
the forest so be sure to check out the Epping Forest
website for trails and maps.
F Full route map F Epping Forest walks
Cycle City
Many of our suggested walking routes can also be explored by bike, and in any case London is becoming
increasingly cycle-friendly. Transport for London has a number of designated and clearly marked routes,
known as Quietways, which connect major parts of the city away from main roads, giving you a safer and more
pleasant ride while also letting you explore hidden areas.
F Quietway maps
24 25Stay in touch!
We want to make sure you are ready to join us in September, so contact us if
you need any help. Here are some of the main contacts you may need:
• Admissions & application queries: admissions@lshtm.ac.uk
• Visa & immigration assistance: visa-enquiries@lshtm.ac.uk
• Tuition fees questions: fees@lshtm.ac.uk
• Talk to a student: virtual.lshtm.ac.uk/student-ambassadors
• All other study-related queries: study@lshtm.ac.uk
@LSHTM.study
@LSHTM
@LSHTM
lshtm.ac.uk/study/blogs
lshtm.ac.uk/youtube
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