Record numbers on International Summer School
The International Summer School (ISS) has opened for 2013, with record numbers of students taking part.
Now in its 15th year, the ISS is hosting almost 600 students from 34 different countries, making the ISS a truly international experience. Many come from the United States, others from Australia, Brazil, Germany, Ghana, Hong Kong, India, Lebanon, Mexico, the Netherlands, the Philippines, Russia, Switzerland, Spain, Turkey and the UAE.
Although many participants come from partner universities - such as Butler, California, Colorado, Illinois, Miami, Penn State, Rutgers (New Jersey), and Anahuac (Mexico) - others come from more varied backgrounds, including mature students and professionals, and some are students in their final year of high school.
The students come for four or eight weeks and take one intensive class in each four-week period (this year, 24 June-19 July and 22 July-16 August).
This summer, students can choose from more than 50 modules in a range of subjects, from human rights to theatre and geopolitics. The most popular class this summer is Physics, with 277 students.
Most students live on campus and take part in a social programme that includes walks on the Downs, karaoke at East Slope (a perennial favourite), weekly pub quizzes and organised outings into Brighton. A team of current Sussex students and finalists serve as student guides, introducing the visitors to life at Sussex, in London and in Britain.
Field trips are also arranged and this year include an insight into the making of Harry Potter films, hikes across the Downs and traditional British events such as cricket and pub tours.
The Director of the International Summer School, Chris Sykes, says: “With these events we aim to facilitate the integration of the ISS students with Sussex students.”
Two farewell ceremonies have been organised for the end of the courses: a formal sit-down dinner with speeches and a more informal event in Bramber House. This will be attended by alumni, who will speak to ISS students about future opportunities at Sussex and encourage them to return for further study.