Studying Law is seen as challenging but is also full of twists and turns that you may not have expected. Let’s debunk five myths about studying Law.
1. Studying Law requires a lot of reading
You will have heard that when studying law, your time will heavily revolve around reading. This is not entirely true as Law students are expected to do more than just reading. Students are expected to attend lectures, prepare for tutorials and seminars and practice formative questions for their upcoming assessments.
The reading is a small proportion of their life which helps to add on further knowledge from the lecture as not everything is covered in-depth during a 2-hour lecture. Reading is compulsory as it helps you get a 2:1 but further readings can reinforce your argument and help you produce a first-class answer.
2. You need to study Law as your undergraduate degree
Many Law students undertake the LLB Undergraduate Degree with the aim to pursue a career as a solicitor or barrister. However, it is not compulsory to undertake the LLB if you wish to become a lawyer.
You may prefer the idea of studying a different subject, but you must then undertake the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL). There are various routes to qualifying as a solicitor and barrister so it will be useful to research which pathway you would prefer.
3. You will get a job at the end of it
You may think getting into Law school means the hard part of the journey is over however this is not the case. The journey has just started, and things will become more complicated and challenging.
Law students tend to have the aim to obtain a pupillage or a training contract. With multiple students applying for these, the chance of success is difficult but not impossible. Don’t get disheartened when you are rejected as this gives you another chance to improve your application and come back stronger.
Studying a Law degree is highly respected and well regarded in other sectors which can prove to be valuable when applying for jobs. It’s also vital to remember that solicitors and barristers are not the only jobs available in the legal market. There are various positions available such as a legal assistant or a barrister’s clerk. Getting experience in the legal and non-legal fields will prove to be valuable when applying for pupillage or training contracts.
4. Law is boring
Law school is a lot of work, and you may see Law students packed in the library working away on their coursework or preparing for tutorials. This does not mean that Law is boring, but rather it is interesting in understanding individual’s rights and the justice system.
Law students do have as much fun as any other students not undertaking a Law degree. Students are not just a part of the Law Society but can join other societies that interest them where they take part in the events and socialise with other people. When exams are over or the weekend comes rolling in, students usually take this time to socialise and take a break from studying.
5. It’s too competitive to have friends
Many students have the aim to qualify as a solicitor or a barrister and this may mean that your friends and peers become your competition. However, competition can be a good thing as it brings out one’s best self.
Law school provides healthy competition such as mooting however this focuses on working as a team to get the best results. University is a place where people make lifetime friends so it’s important to keep connected with these people as networking can prove to be valuable in helping you get your next job.
Written by Anisa, third-year LLB student at The City Law School