Tell us a bit about your background…
I am from Ghana and I completed my secondary education in Ghana. I studied my undergraduate degree in Law in Hull, England. I then went on to complete a Legal Practice Course in Manchester. The LPC is designed to provide you with practical training to allow you to become a solicitor.
What inspired you to study your course?
I have always had an interest in the corporate side of law and this developed when studying for my LPC and undergraduate degree. I thought I could gain the best experience in both the commercial law and business aspects with the course at Strathclyde. Other universities offered similar courses, but didn’t allow me to specialise, as this one does.
Why did you choose to continue studying at the University of Strathclyde?
The location was a big deciding factor in pursuing this course. I have studied in Hull and Manchester, so I wanted to branch out to explore Scotland. In terms of the quality of teaching at the university, it really is up there with the best. When speaking to different people along my journey, they always seem to recommend Strathclyde. I also had the opportunity to tailor the course to make it exactly what I wanted it to be, I like that about Strathclyde.
What has been the highlight of your time at Strathclyde so far?
I have to say, I really enjoy my classes, they are always interesting. To be honest when I saw that I would be in a class for two or three hours at a time, I felt intimidated – but you wouldn’t believe how time passes so quickly!
What specialist knowledge/professional skills have you developed whilst studying the course?
I have found that my research skills have definitely improved. From this, my writing skills have developed and my attention to detail is now much sharper – I know how to get my point across in my writing.
What would be your advice for people considering taking this course?
It is very interesting and engaging as it deals with current affairs. You can see how the different principles can be applied to real life. I would say that the course is intensive, but I wouldn’t say that it is overwhelming. I’ve always been confident with my timekeeping skills and would advise that anyone considering the LLM International Commercial Law takes time to balance their work and social lives.
What have been the main challenges studying at postgraduate level?
I have found that there is a real difference between the undergraduate and postgraduate levels of study. Postgraduate is more research focused and allows you to dive deep into your learning. The LPC was also at Postgraduate level and it gave me the opportunity to understand what studying at that level really means. You have to be more organised and take the time to plan your work. At undergraduate level you have a really strict timetable and learning can be more rigid.
What do you think of the support available?
It is amazing. The tutors and lecturers are so hands and so helpful, very supportive, easy to talk to. There is help for anything you could possibly need help for, workload, assessments etc. Everybody is very willing to help!
What are your ambitions for the future?
I am keen to be an entrepreneur, I hope to work at the UN and also as a commercial/corporate lawyer. I like to travel so I want to be in a role that allows me to explore different environments.