We were very lucky to have such amazing weather for the final overnight retreat.
Setting of by coach from LSHTM in the heart of London, we eventually escaped the city and headed down the motorway to arrive at our hostel at Lulworth, Dorset. Then, in glorious sunshine, we quickly grabbed a sandwich and strode off through the quaint English village, consisting of street-lined thatched cottages, and onto a footpath that took us to one of the most scenic coastal areas in England called Durdle Dor. Quite a few of us were brave enough to go swimming in the cold sea, while others of us lazed about on the beach playing cards or simply enjoying the sunshine.
After a couple of hours of blissful summer sun, we walked back over the cliff to Lulworth Cove, where we settled in a delightful large pub garden to have some refreshments, followed by a wonderful meal. Finally, with everyone feeling relaxed and in good spirits, we slowly walked back to our hostel for a few more drinks or rounds of cards.
The next morning, it took quite a bit of effort for everyone to get up in time for a large cooked breakfast of eggs, bacon, sausages, toast and more, provided by the hostel. The rest of the time was spent reflecting on all aspects of the degree, and providing helpful feedback to Hannah, Daniel and Simon – the Programme Directors – to help inform any changes in its delivery for the following year.
On the journey home we presented our two student reps with some flowers, to say thank you to them for all the care and dedication they gave making sure we communicated any issues we had directly to the staff who taught us.
This short trip out of London provided the perfect ending to all the lectures and classes over the past academic year, although everyone will continue to be just as busy researching and writing up their individual projects over the summer.
The Public Health for Development degree is unique in having its two retreats – one at the beginning, and this second one in the summer. They ensure students rapidly get to know each other, and the three Programme Directors, to engender a cohesive and supportive cohort where everyone can feel at home. Feeling we are all part of a team directly helps everyone navigate all the academic and practical challenges of the degree, and goes on to provide a world-spanning professional network as friends go on to pursue their careers after their time at LSHTM.
