My decision to study the LPC at Nottingham Law School was largely based on my previous experience of the University. Having already been taught by some amazing tutors who pushed me to achieve a first in my undergraduate law degree, it seemed logical to remain at the University in order to continue this success.

Nottingham Law School was also the most financially viable option, made even more so by the availability of a wide range of scholarships. Overall I really enjoyed everything that Nottingham Law School has to offer, and was more than happy to continue studying here for another year.

I took a rather typical route into professional study, progressing straight from my A-levels to an undergraduate law degree. This degree was four years long and it contained a placement during the third year of study. It was the option of a placement year that originally attracted me to NTU, and it was the placement experience that confirmed my desire to become a solicitor.

Before attending one of their open days, my knowledge of Nottingham Law School was limited. One aspect that I was aware of however was the University’s strong commitment to employment and professional practice. This was clear from the range of professional courses the University offers: LPC, BPTC and GDL, for graduates wanting a career as a solicitor or barrister.

One of the main things that attracted me to the LPC at Nottingham Law School was its combination with a Masters degree. Upon completing the traditional LPC and an additional professional practice dissertation, the LPC qualification is effectively supplemented with a Masters degree. I have chosen to do my dissertation on employment law and mental health as these are areas that I would like to explore in professional practice. I feel that undertaking a Masters degree alongside the LPC will make me very appealing to prospective employers.

One of the things that really stood out at Nottingham Law School was its Legal Advice Centre. The centre itself caters for a massive range of legal pro bono opportunities. I have personally been involved with advising clients at the centre and am currently training to become a FRU Representative. As a qualified representative I will have the opportunity to represent real-life clients at employment and social security tribunals.

Having been at NTU since 2011, I have experienced at first hand the transformation that its facilities have gone through. The development of the Students' Union and expansion of the sports facilities at the City site has brought about many opportunities that were previously only available at the Clifton campus. The Boots Library and other learning facilities have also been constantly redeveloped in order to create a more pleasant and productive environment.

In addition to these excellent facilities I have also been greatly assisted by the University’s Student Services. General support services have been invaluable in providing me with practical assistance concerning issues such as financing and accommodation. The University’s Employability Service has provided great assistance in my attempt to secure a training contract by reviewing applications and providing contacts. Both services have consistently offered unprecedented levels of support.

My greatest achievement on the LPC so far has been helping to run the GDL Mooting Society and competition. This responsibility has proven to be extremely challenging, with there being so much more to do behind the scenes than I had initially anticipated. At the same time it has also been extremely rewarding by effectively allowing me to teach mooting to other students and run a small part of the University.

As a result of professional study, my career plans have become much more focused. Whereas beforehand I did not know what area of law I wanted to enter, I am now sure of my desire to practise in the likes of private client, family and employment law. It has also confirmed my long term plan to eventually return to university as an academic with practical experience.