Shashi Kaur: I never imagined I would be capable of achieving so much in such a short amount of time

My experience studying Law at Portsmouth has truly been memorable for all the right reasons! In every aspect, I was challenged and I was able to overcome these challenges with the guidance, support and encouragement from a stellar teaching team and friends I made on the course.

I enjoyed Law at college, which is where I developed my interest in the legal field. However, I didn’t have the confidence to enter such a demanding and competitive field straight away, so for a few years after college I worked as a senior administrator and a recruitment consultant to build my confidence to pursue my legal dream. After working in an office environment, I soon realised I had a strong foundation to enhance my abilities and challenge myself by pursuing a career as a solicitor.

Why I chose Portsmouth

At the age of 21, I began my law degree and I chose Portsmouth for 2 main reasons. Firstly, the University is known for its Gold teaching standard. After completing my undergraduate here, I can confirm that the quality of teaching, support and guidance has been beyond my expectations. 

The staff are very approachable and personable, which makes the University of Portsmouth really stand out. This reason alone made me very pleased to have had the opportunity to study here.

My teaching staff were enthusiastic about their area of law, which made the whole course refreshing and exciting as you cannot help but feel motivated about learning complex theories, cases and legislation.

In my first year, I found independent learning difficult, but as each year passed during my three-year undergraduate degree, I saw myself becoming more confident in my abilities. 

Secondly, the location of the University is outstanding! I knew I would enjoy going to the seafront during springtime. I often go there to take a break from studying and for walks.

Portsmouth has always been a diverse, safe and welcoming city and after spending three years here, I call it my second home! My favourite place in Portsmouth is Koh Thai restaurant. I came here with my friends to celebrate after the end of year exams.

Making my course my own

The structure of the course is considered with the students at the forefront and made studying law easier to digest. The range of electives available in second and third year made sure there was something appealing to everyone. The facilities (virtual and interactive rooms), resources and services are very modern and forward-thinking.

There are practical courses available, which are ideal if you have the intention to enter the legal field. I opted to do Cilex – an extra qualification alongside the degree, which gives an in-depth insight of conveyancing and civil litigation. Whereas my friends chose the Legal Advice Clinic where they gave real legal advice to members of the public.

I also opted to write a 10,000-word dissertation on an area of law that I'm very passionate about – an important milestone for me as a lot of time and effort went into it. I know I will come back to this dissertation again and again for the rest of my life. 

Succeeding and leading in law

Like every other law student, I wanted to get stuck in as much as possible to gain the full benefit of what the university provides. I took advantage of the opportunities available and I was successful in my first year in becoming a brand ambassador for a regional law firm, Blake Morgan LLP.

In my second year, I was elected Secretary of the University of Portsmouth Law Society and I also volunteered as a gateway assessor at my local Citizens Advice for a year, which was a very rewarding experience. I gave members of the public free advice on a range of areas including debt, immigration, tenant and family issues.

In my final year, I was elected President of the University of Portsmouth Law Society. As the President and with the help of my team, I organised and hosted events that included getting a team together for the Southampton Legal Walk and raising £622 for advice agencies in Hampshire, running a team-building paintball session for law students, hosting our society’s Christmas meal and running an event for LawCareers.net that was nominated as their 'Best Career Event'. With the support of other fellow law students and the Faculty of Law, I helped initiate Wellbeing Champions. 

I never imagined I would be capable of achieving so much in such a short amount of time. Within each of these positions, I have so many special memories and met the most incredible like-minded individuals.

From student to solicitor in training

The University had many guest speakers from the legal profession who discussed their chosen career path. These sessions were exceptionally helpful as they not only confirmed my interest in becoming a solicitor but allowed me to feel more confident in starting a Legal Practice Course after my undergrad.

I'm now undertaking my Legal Practice Course with The University of Law (Guildford Campus). This is a full-time course which requires me to work 40 hours per week. Although it's very fast-paced and there's a large volume of work, it's very interesting as it's practical.

I have been able to transfer my academic and practical skills from university to the postgraduate course. It's exciting to know that I'm learning and carrying out activities which would be required of a solicitor.