We spoke with Kiri, a current Postgraduate Diploma in Law student, about her experience studying with us online. She told us all about her experience with growing confidence, her aspirations as a barrister and new opportunities she never would have had before starting her course.
By Elsa Tatam. Published 12 July 2024.
I have always wanted to go to university – The University of Law is my place to be, and I feel gradually more confident as I go along. I recognise the importance of my perspective and the strength of my opinions - my insights are valid, and I have grown to have the courage to speak out against injustices and unfair treatment.
I knew that I wanted to be a barrister from around the age of 13. My motivation to become a barrister is rooted in a strong sense of justice, particularly for those who might otherwise be overlooked or marginalised. Witnessing instances where individuals were unfairly treated or lacked proper representation deeply impacted me and solidified my resolve to advocate on their behalf. Throughout my academic journey, I have been continuously inspired by the potential to effect meaningful change within the legal system. My unwavering desire to be called to the Bar became a constant source of motivation. The vision of donning the cap and gown, of achieving that significant milestone, symbolised not only personal success but also the fulfilment of my career aspirations.
When I first started at the University, the support I received played a crucial role in helping me feel at ease. One person who particularly stood out was my Student Journey Advisor. From the very beginning, she was exceptional, providing guidance and reassurance at every step. I initially thought the application process would be confusing and overwhelming; navigating the various requirements and steps seemed daunting at first. However, the support provided by the University eased all my concerns and my student guide was an invaluable resource. They were accessible via email and phone, ready to assist with any questions I had throughout the process. They explained the necessary steps, the specific requirements for completing the application and provided detailed instructions on how to proceed. Something that stood out to me throughout the application process was the promptness of the University's responses; this really helped alleviate my nerves and solidified my confidence in the institution's commitment to supporting its students. Their guidance transformed what initially seemed like a complex task into a manageable and straightforward process.
The University understands that starting a new academic journey can be overwhelming, and they have structured their support services to address this. My Student Journey Advisor was always readily available to help with any concerns I had, whether they were related to coursework, navigating the online platforms, or understanding University policies. Her approachable and friendly demeanour made it easy to reach out whenever I needed assistance.
Since starting at the University, I have made a number of friends online via Whatsapp groups and Facebook support groups. We are all so supportive of each other and can often chat away our worries, which is so helpful. The University's online platforms are designed to foster interaction and build a sense of community among students. The camaraderie and mutual encouragement we shared were instrumental in keeping me motivated and engaged. It felt reassuring to know that others were experiencing the same hurdles and triumphs, and we could lean on each other for support which greatly enhanced my learning experience.
Juggling a full-time job, studying, my pro bono work with Inside Justice, and my role as an advisory board member for the Criminal Justice Alliance has at times been a challenge. However, I've developed several methods to manage my workload effectively and maintain a balance.
Time management is at the core of my approach. Prioritising tasks is essential, and I focus on completing the most critical and time-sensitive ones first.
Another method is the power of setting boundaries and saying no when necessary. Initially, I found it difficult to turn down opportunities or requests, fearing that I might miss out on valuable experiences. However, I soon realised that overcommitting would lead to burnout and compromise the quality of my work in all areas. Now, I evaluate my capacity realistically and decline commitments that I cannot fully dedicate myself to. This practice has been crucial in maintaining my mental health and ensuring that I can perform effectively in my roles.
Additionally, I make sure to incorporate regular breaks and downtime into my schedule. This helps me recharge and maintain a high level of productivity. Whether it's a short walk, a quick workout, or simply some quiet time, these breaks are vital for sustaining my energy levels and staying focused.
The support from my network has also been invaluable. Colleagues, mentors, and fellow students provide encouragement and understanding, which helps alleviate the pressures of my busy schedule. They remind me that it's okay to ask for help and that taking care of myself is just as important as fulfilling my responsibilities.
The University of Law has been instrumental in supporting my aspiration to become a barrister. Since commencing my studies, I have become a member of Middle Temple Inn, and I am thrilled to have received an offer to study the Bar Practice Course (BPC) at the University. This milestone has filled me with genuine excitement and a sense of accomplishment.
The opportunities provided by the University are truly invaluable. One of the most significant experiences has been participating in my first ever moot. This experience allowed me to engage in simulated court proceedings, honing my advocacy skills and gaining practical insights into the courtroom environment. The University’s support in organising these moots has been exceptional and I am eagerly planning to participate in another one in a few months.
Finally, the University offers a wealth of resources and guidance to help students succeed. From workshops and seminars, to networking events and mentorship programs, The University of Law creates a comprehensive support system. These opportunities enable me to deepen my understanding of the legal profession, develop essential skills and build connections with experienced practitioners.
If, like Kiri, you want to take the first steps towards making positive change, find out more about our Postgraduate Diploma in Law or if you want to see more real-life student experiences, head over to our LiveProspectus.
