ORA’s Imperial campus is done for Summer 2019, after a tremendous second session came to a close on the weekend. The students packed their bags, and departed heavy-hearted. They have been absolutely fantastic during their time in London, and have in turn gained a lot of great experience and handy knowledge from the programme, as well as a whole host of new friends.
The students took on their academic programmes with real gusto, facing up to their topics and displaying admirable vigour as they went about their work. The classes have tackled not only the theoretical side of their subjects, but also an array of practical elements, as the students have had the chance to put the theory into practice. As well as this, they have had homework and projects to work on outside the classroom, in order to make sure that the information is reinforced.
These projects were approached enthusiastically by the students, as were the masterclasses which took place several times throughout the fortnight. These were aimed at providing the students with details and insight into worlds away from their courses. Some of the students had a chance to prevent a fictional pandemic in one workshop, whilst another enabled them to cooperate in the face of national security issues. These both proved enormously popular, and the students showed off some impressive leadership skills!
They have also been able to visit some of London’s many attractions, sampling the range of amazing cultural experiences which the UK’s capital has to offer. One of the highlights was certainly the trip up The Shard, one of Europe’s tallest buildings, to watch the sunset. There was also a trip to the West End, a visit to Kew Gardens and a lot of free time to explore the city and do some shopping!
The students’ free time has largely been spent together. If they haven’t been off campus in small groups, they’ve been in the communal areas chatting, playing games or watching television. Whatever they were doing, they were enjoying one another’s company as friendships grew closer over the two weeks. It has been great for the whole ORA team to see such great harmony on campus, and it has left a lasting impression on everyone.
The programme culminated in a wonderful graduation evening, with awards handed out and students gathering with staff and some parents to celebrate their successes. The happy ceremony was followed by an even happier party, as everyone enjoyed a meal at a lovely restaurant and then socialised for the rest of the evening.
The session perfectly summed up the spirit in which Imperial’s whole Summer 2019 season has been carried out, in that everyone got along well, gave their all to the academic timetable, and walked away with lots of valuable new knowledge! The atmosphere on campus was exemplary throughout, as were the classes, and the ORA staff were hugely impressed by the students. It was a very successful session in London, and we couldn’t have asked for more!