LLB Law, 2017
“The level of contact hours is just right – we have enough time in lectures and seminars without it feeling like it takes up every single day. Everyone in the department is welcoming and helpful and it’s very easy to get hold of lecturers if you’re in need of extra help; they will always arrange a time to meet and go over things with you”
Emily took Law as one of her A-levels and thoroughly enjoyed it. Before starting at Brookes she took a gap year to travel, learnt to sail, and completed a fashion PR internship. Now in her second year of Law she reflects on what made her choose the course.
I chose to study Law as it is a key pillar in the functioning of our society; this means that I’m learning about something that’s important not only to me, but to everyone around me. I love how relevant it is to all aspects of life, and the fact that it’s always changing and adapting makes it a fascinating subject to study.
I was attracted to the Oxford Brookes’ course because I liked the wide range of optional modules on offer, as well as the fact that all of the lecturers are active researchers. I also fell in love with the law building when I visited the university for an open day – I think it’s important to learn in a relaxing and aesthetically pleasing environment, and Brookes definitely provides this.
The level of contact hours is just right – we have enough time in lectures and seminars without it feeling like it takes up every single day. Everyone in the department is welcoming and helpful and it’s very easy to get hold of lecturers if you’re in need of extra help; they will always arrange a time to meet and go over things with you. I have found two law lecturers to be particularly inspiring: Marc Howe and Jeff Young are both particularly good at explaining things in a way that makes them clear, concise and most importantly, memorable. The way that they set out their lectures and seminars feels calm and light-hearted, whilst still covering all of the material in great depth.
Oxford is a beautiful city, rich in culture and history. Everything is easy to get to by bus, and Brookes provides you with a free bus pass which is really useful. There are endless things to see and do and the student community is so strong here. Also, the Oxford crown court is only a short trip into town, so if you’re like me and interested in sitting in on trials and seeing the law in practice, it’s really easy to do so.
At the moment I’m undecided about my future: I chose a law degree because it interests me, rather than with a view to becoming a lawyer. However during my studies I’ve become increasingly drawn to a career in the legal profession, possibly as a solicitor. I believe that a good degree in law will help me in any industry because it shows your ability to think critically and work hard. Also, learning legal jargon and how to read cases are very important skills and transferable to a work environment, as well as time management and communication skills.
I am very driven to become successful at whatever it is I decide to do, but I may want to explore some different options, possibly in the media, before I commit to training as a lawyer.