SOAS or LSE?

Hi!

I am currently at the verge of making a far-reaching personal decision and really would need some advice concerning this issue.

I applied for the MSc International Politics at SOAS as well as for the MSc International Relations at LSE. Within my master course I want to further deepen my knowledge of the Middle East and sub-Saharan Africa and the forthcoming challenges for both regions, as these two regions are really a passion of mine.

Now I hold an offer from both, but I am completely uncertain, for which one I should go. LSE for the reputation? SOAS for its lateral thinking? Both seem to me as leading institutions in their field, but apparently with an opposite self-conception. I am neither a slippery career guy, nor some radical communist, really avoiding these extrems, hence I would describe myself as a curious, unorthodox mind, with a great antipathy for all kind of bigoted ideologies.

To get a sense about me: I am an adventureous soul, who travels a lot (e.g. Iran, China, Palestinian territories, Trans-Siberian Railway, Eastern Europe ...) and is very obsessed about culture and history (collecting old books and exotic vinyl records and stuff like that). Crucial for my choose is, where I will get to know interesting fellows, as I am definetely not that sort of pencil pusher, though I have good grades and take my studies seriously. Therefore I really like to meet people who have seen the world outside of the campus.

My heart says SOAS, because I like their somekind alternative, but still professional attitude. Nevertheless studying at one of the absolutely world-leading institutions like LSE within my field seems also very attracting to me (however I wouldn't do it for the money or something like that). Though some stories of LSE alumnis about the huge workload and the culture there deter me a little bit. Some people really seem to get broken by the pressure there. One for example told me, that he really lost his pleasure to study and was not that happy with his decision, which is a horrible vision for me - because I wholeheartly love my subject (as my friend did).

Maybe some former or current students can give me a more appropriate insight on these two universities. How are the facilities and the teaching there? Is there that big difference? How are the people? What was your overall impression? In which environment do you think, will I be able to fully pursue my passions?

Being the first one out of my family, who reached an academic degree, I see this as a once-in-a-lifetime chance, but at the moment I feel a little bit lost. Therefore I really appreciate all your estimations.