Q&A: Life as an LPC Student with Sarah Bradd

1. Are you studying the LPC full-time or part-time?

I am studying the LPC full-time at the University of Law, Moorgate Campus. It is nice to be back at ULaw as I completed my LLB at the Bloomsbury Campus, being back in a familiar setting definitely took the nerves away.

2. How has studying post-covid been for you and what are the challenges that come with it?

During covid, I was working as a Paralegal at Charles Russell Speechlys so there has not been much of a difference for me. Teaching in person and being on campus definitely has its benefits for the type of learner that I am. It is good to be able to collaborate with my peers and ask tutors questions on topics that I am finding difficult.

3. How do you manage your time?

I treat the LPC like a job by studying in 'office hours'. By looking at my timetable and upcoming deadlines, I am able to plan my day. It is useful to try and a section of each topic in a day. When it comes to textbook reading, little and often works for me.

4. How do you make sure you look after your well-being?

Well-being is extremely important when studying. Having ‘down time’ in the evenings is particularly important. I enjoy going to the gym or to the cinema to take my mind off studying. Eating chocolate and watching Netflix is also a great way to unwind! Having time for your mind to relax and digest your learning from the day means that it is more likely to stick in your mind.

5. What modules do you enjoy most and why?

Law and Business, Commercial Disputes and Family electives have been very enjoyable.

Law and Business has given me a good basis of how law as a business works with the ‘behind the scenes’ knowledge which I wouldn’t have known hadn’t it been for this topic.

Commercial Disputes is an area I’ve not studied before so it has been great to get my teeth stuck into this and explore how Commercial Disputes can be resolved.

Family Law has also been an interest for me and being able to dive deeper into the topic. It has given me a good grounding for hopefully completing a seat in this area.

6. What aspects do you find challenging?

The volume of work is particularly challenging especially with studying with the MSc alongside the LPC. It is all about being organised and following tutors guidance. There is often a lot of textbook reading and preparatory tasks needed before the workshops however, these are crucial as these feed into the session. It is all about having the right balance.

7. Have you decided what area of Law you wish to qualify in?

At the moment, I am keeping an open mind until I start my training contract in August in order to experience different areas. For my seat rotations it would be great to do Family Law, or a Disputes seat and Employment Law.

8. When do you finish the LPC and what 3 tips would you give to aspiring solicitors?

Good question! In the summer I will finish the LPC. 3 tips I would give to aspiring solicitors would be:

1. The power of networking, attending events and making contacts. Early on in my legal journey, being able to network and creating contacts was invaluable with gaining work experience. There are many free events for aspiring solicitors whether that’s a talk at a law firm, a careers fayre or even attending City of Westminster and Holborn Events (CWHLS) events; there is plenty to get involved in!

2. Commercial awareness of the legal industry. This comes hand in hand with my first tip as this means you’ll be able to engage with legal professionals and your peers. You never know what you might learn along the way.

3. Never give up or compare yourself to your others. It doesn’t matter how long your journey is; the journey is important and will shape you as a solicitor.