Studying at SOAS has opened my mind and changed my life

As she approaches the end of her MA, Surabhi reflects on her experience of studying at SOAS and living in London, what she's learned and the tools and confidence she's gained.

For the past two years, SOAS has been my home, and I've found the experience to be truly life-changing. I chose to study MA in South Asian Studies with Intensive language (Sanskrit) at SOAS in 2019 during my undergraduate degree because of some of the work I read from the professors teaching here. But it has defied my expectations in so many more ways.

I've gained fluency in Sanskrit that I never thought possible

First of all, I’m really proud of how far I’ve come in my Sanskrit. The intensive language program has allowed me to gain fluency in Sanskrit, which I never thought possible. When I arrived, I could barely string together a simple sentence. Now, I am working on a dissertation using Sanskrit texts and have deep discussions on South Asian philosophies - all thanks to the expert guidance and immersive environment at SOAS.

This is because language learning at SOAS is an immersive experience, both inside and outside the classroom. The small class sizes and often one-on-one tutoring allow for interactive, personalised teaching. The university also offers film screenings, cultural events, guest lectures and more in your language of study. Studying at SOAS surrounds you with native speakers, opportunities to practice, and a cultural context to enrich your linguistic journey.

SOAS has been an inclusive, inspiring, and magical place to expand my knowledge over the past two years.

Learning at SOAS is about immersing yourself in the cultures you're studying

SOAS gives you not only linguistic skills but contextual understanding that sets you apart. I've been completely immersed in the culture, philosophy, history and intricacies of South Asian societies. Every class, from Sanskrit grammar to courses on Hinduism, Indian cinema, or postcolonial literature, has expanded my perspective and understanding. The passionate professors bring the material to life with their first-hand experiences and research.

The favourite lesson I learnt was how we can trace the evolution of music and study it as a source of history. Before this, I never gave importance to the history and life of music, but hearing music from all over South Asia and then getting to write about it was a very fresh perspective for me.

In London, I’ve made friends with people from around the world

SOAS is known for its diversity, but it’s not until you get to campus that you realise what that truly means. I’ve made friends from all over the world and had the opportunity to go to events such as interfaith prayer group meet-ups and learn about the heritage of the students who come here. You can tell how diverse SOAS is from the sheer number of societies, such as the Chinese Culture Society and the World Music Choir.

As a global crossroads, London provides the perfect setting to immerse yourself in new languages and cultures. SOAS draws diverse students, allowing you to connect with native speakers outside the classroom. You can also find media, events, religious centres, restaurants and more that connect you to the languages and cultures you study. SOAS helps you explore London through an intercultural lens.

As a forum for intercultural exchange, SOAS has allowed me to build bonds and friendships with people worldwide that will undoubtedly last a lifetime.

I encourage anyone passionate about languages, cultures, and global understanding to join this remarkable community.

SOAS will open your mind and change your life in incredible ways

From the inspiring academics to the tight-knit yet diverse student community, SOAS has been an inclusive, inspiring, and magical place to expand my knowledge over the past two years. The intensive learning has challenged me more than I could have imagined while giving me memories and relationships I will always cherish.

SOAS has changed my life in more ways than one. It has made me more empathetic towards the experiences and contexts of other people. It has given me the tools and confidence to present myself as a global citizen even when returning to my home country. Most importantly, it has provided me with a network that is spread throughout the world.

I encourage anyone passionate about languages, cultures, and global understanding to join this remarkable community. SOAS will open your mind and change your life in incredible ways.