SCHOLARS OF THE SYMPOSIUM
SHAPING THE DISCOURSE OF TOMORROW.
CONNECTING BRIGHT MINDS TODAY.
About the SOTS Programme
The German Society of the London School of Economics and Political Science invites German-speaking students to participate in the German Symposium 2025 and you can apply to be part of it!
Join us at the Symposium to delve into pivotal discussions on European matters and current German-British affairs, guided by leading experts in these domains.
Our Scholars of the Symposium (SOTS) programme offers students an unparalleled oppertunity to interact with eminent figures from EU, German, and British politics, industry, and culture. This unique blend of informal and academic settings allows for genuine engagement. Beyond attending public events, SOTS participants can connect with speakers in exclusive coffee chats and workshops. Additionally, our curated social events provide ample opportunities for networking, bonding with peers, and exploring London.
The SOTS programme application window opens on the 24th November 2024 and closes 18 December 2024. We will notify applicants by early January at the latest. While most expenses are covered, participants are expected to manage their journey to and from London and contribute €75. Please note, your participation will be confirmed only after we receive the contribution within a week of acceptance.
WHERE
The Symposium will be taking place in-person in London at the London School of Economics and Political Science.
WHEN
3rd - 7th March, 2024 (Scholars will arrive on the 2nd and leave on the 8th)
CONTENT
Panel discussions, public speeches, and workshops on current issues related to Germany, the United Kingdom, and Europe and this year’s motto ‘Transforming Tomorrow’.
Timeline
24th November - 18 December 2024: Application period
End-December 2024 - Early January 2025: We will review applications and provide feedback
February 2025: Expect detailed Emails about the Symposium week
2nd March 2025: Arrival in London
3rd - 7th March 2025: The German Symposium and additional events (both are mandatory)
8th March 2025: Departure from London
End of March: We will send out participation certificates
Why apply?
Take part in one of the biggest annual forums on Anglo-German relations.
Witness a wide range of distinguished figures from politics, business, culture, and academics.
Discuss current affairs and exchange ideas on the future of the Europe and Anglo-German relation.
Experience intellectually stimulating panel discussions and
partake in exclusive informal events while meeting outstanding speakers.Mingle with like-minded students from other universities and from the LSE.
FAQs
When does the Symposium take place?
The German Symposium 2025 is scheduled for 3rd - 7th March 2025. Please plan to be in London from February 2nd until 8th of March.
Where does the Symposium take place?
The Symposium will be taking place in-person in London at the London School of Economics and Political Science.
How much does the SOTS programme cost?
The programme involves organising your journey to and from London and a contribution towards expenses of EUR 75, -.
How do I apply? When do applications close?
The SOTS programme application window opens 24th November 2024 and closes on 18 December 2024. To participate in the selection process, you need to answer four questions. You can either provide written responses with a maximum of 250 words per question, or you have the voluntary option of submitting a short essay, record a video, or a podcast where you introduce yourself and address the questions. The applications are closed now.
What does a typical day at the Symposium look like?
The Symposium typically begins at 9:30 am and concludes around 7:00 pm, with breaks interspersed between events. Our agenda includes a diverse array of activities, from panel discussions and workshops to intimate breakout sessions with our esteemed speakers. Beyond the Symposium's formal proceedings, the German Society has curated a series of engaging social events, including dinners, parties, and guided tours of London. These events offer a prime opportunity to broaden your network and immerse yourself in one of the world's most dynamic cities. A detailed schedule will be available on this website once released.
Further Questions?
If you have any queries or need further information, feel free to reach out to german.sots@lsesu.org
Who is eligible to take part in the SOTS programme?
The SOTS programme is designed especially for German-speaking students and trainees worldwide, excluding those in the UK. It is important to note that students from all London universities, including LSE, should not apply for the SOTS programme. Instead, we encourage London-based students to purchase a regular ticket for the Symposium. This approach ensures that funding is available for participants coming from outside London. Tickets will be available soon. For updates and more information, please follow us on our social media channels: Instagram and LinkedIn.
What if I cannot attend the German Symposium after all?
Once accepted, you'll have one week to secure your place in the programme by contributing 75 Euros. After you transferred the money, we will generally not be able to refund you. Extenuating circumstances may apply.
When will I hear back from you about my application?
We are working diligently to review your application. You can expect a response by early January 2024 at the latest. If accepted, please ensure you respond promptly and transfer the EUR 75,- contribution within a week of receiving the positive notification.
What expenses will be covered?
We will provide coverage for your accommodation at a hostel. Additionally, all your tickets for the symposium and the nightly events are on us. While some of these events come with catering, please note that other food expenses are not covered. You will also be expected to manage your journey to and from London.
Will I receive a certificate?
A certificate will be sent via post or electronically to you at the end of the Symposium if all mandatory events were attended.