Rin Kobayashi

Rin, from Japan, studied the ‘Psychology Now!’ and ‘A Post-Liberal World’ modules in 2025. Here she reflects on her supportive tutors and classmates, making friends and the ‘unique’ feel of Brighton.

‘Spending time with new friends made the programme even more special’

I felt very welcomed and comfortable throughout the programme. I felt encouraged to ask questions whenever I didn’t understand something. The support from my professors and classmates made the experience truly enjoyable. There was an emphasis on student-led discussions, which made the classroom experience more interactive and engaging. 

I participated in many of the social events, and the trip to Arundel Castle was particularly memorable. This excursion also brought together students from different classes, which gave me the chance to meet people I wouldn’t normally interact with. I was happy to make new friends and build connections through this shared experience.

Brighton is a great place to hang out and explore. What really stands out are the many unique shops that give the town a creative and independent atmosphere. One of the best things about Brighton is that everything is accessible by foot or bus. The stadium of Brighton’s football team is located right next to the university campus, and watching a match there can be a really exciting experience.

My most memorable experience from the Summer School was the Brighton tour on the day after I arrived. During the tour I became friends with two other students, one from Ukraine and one from the United States. From that day on we stayed close and organised our own movie nights and activities together. Spending time with them made the entire programme even more special. 

My overall experience at the Summer School was extremely fulfilling. The academic content was rich and engaging. I felt that the campus was thoughtfully designed to make students with different personalities feel comfortable, whether they prefer quiet time alone or active engagement with others.