Seven questions with Laxmi Aurora

This week, meet Laxmi Aurora, who is studying an Economics BSc and is involved with the upcoming Women's Leadership Conference at UCL.

She has some great tips for coffee shops around campus and also has a very unique commute to university each day! 

Why are you interested in Economics and what do you plan to do in the future?

Economics is a balance between psychology, logic and maths, so it felt like the perfect degree for me. It was one of the A levels I really enjoyed at school, and since it plays such a vital role in our society it seemed an interesting challenge to pursue! In terms of career, while banking and consultancy are definitely options, I'm also excited to find and investigate other paths as they come up. I think especially in the first year of university it's important to explore what is out there because you don't know whether you'll like something until you try it!

What is the most interesting thing you've done, seen or got involved with while at UCL?

Economics & Finance Society has absolutely been my favourite part, being a first year rep has given me a family to bug with my questions about life at UCL! From exclusive alumni events to contributing to the Women's Leadership Conference on 1st and 2nd February; I've been given the freedom to shape high-profile events, especially promoting equality and diversity in the industry - something I feel very strongly about. It's a great opportunity to get involved and have a voice, it can really make a difference for students around campus to have that exposure.

Have you discovered any hidden gems during your time at UCL?

One of the best things I've found is the Brunswick centre, from the weekly grocery shop to finding a last minute outfit this shopping centre has you covered. Especially if you live in the Kings Cross area, it's so convenient and the coffee shops are definitely much quieter than on the main roads - it's ideal for studying.

Give us your top three things to do/see/go to in London:

One of the best things about London is there is always something going on from Winter Wonderland to the Lumiere lights festival! 

Although it's quite a cliché, I'm a sucker for hot chocolate in the cold, as soon as there is some whipped cream on top - I'm finished. Bloomsbury Coffee House is my go-to when you need to catch up with friends, it's a cute cafe close to campus, and with a student discount you can't go wrong.

Finally, there is nothing better than a walk through Regents Park, the view from Primrose Hill is incredible and so relaxing after a day in the centre of London - it's nice to see something green for a change.

If you were Provost for the day what one thing would you do?

As Provost, I think I'd like to do something meaningful for students that they'd actually appreciate. Making sure all lectures were lecture-casted would definitely be a top priority, so all those students still in bed don't miss out!

Who inspires you and why?

I'd say Linda Sarsour, a women's & immigrants' rights activist who is leading the fight against Trump's various policy "reforms". I think she's inspirational not only because of her consistent resistance against injustice in the US, but also the fact she balances her work, her personal life and her activism seamlessly. I consider it a success if I attend all my lectures and make myself a meal with a vegetable.

What would it surprise people to know about you?

When I'm not living in halls in London, I actually live on an island, on the River Thames. I have to get a boat every day to get to the mainland, or to pick up my Domino's order. It's always a good surprise when you bring your friends over - I always double check if they can swim first!