Hi! I’m Twiggy, an international student from Hong Kong. Here are a few of the things you can look forward to about studying Law at York…
The unique learning style
A distinct feature of York Law School is its problem-based learning (PBL) seminars, in which students gather as law firms to analyse a scenario with legal problems and to establish learning outcomes (LO’s) together. They will then feedback on the LO’s after a week of independent research.
I won’t lie, I found my first few weeks of PBL challenging as I was not used to such a collaborative learning style. However, I was quickly amazed by the exchange of ideas in this interactive process! I’ve also learnt that it pushes me to think actively about the connections between facts and law. This approach has helped me a lot with my assessments. Apart from the ‘study of law’ side, I have welcomed new ideas alongside speaking up about my own thoughts and interpretations. Personally, I feel that I am gradually developing into a more confident person.
New challenges and opportunities to grow
The challenges of a law course are a little different for an international student like myself. You are trying to get used to a different culture, language and learning approach, which made me feel uneasy at the beginning! At home, I experienced a spoon-fed education whereas I find that this learning environment encourages you to contribute, collaborate and think of your own ideas. Going outside of your comfort zone can be daunting sometimes, but it is also a great opportunity to grow!
Advanced Legal Skills (ALS) is an opportunity for EU and international students to really develop their skills. This module is the most challenging one that I have encountered so far. As a student firm we have to form negotiating and advocacy plans ourselves before presenting them in sessions, as if we are a legal institution under simulations. It is fun in the way that you can develop new skills and apply your legal research to practice. You might also discover another side of yourself!
Supportive people
Don’t forget that there are always people on hand to guide you through the process of Law School. At York, we have personal advisors who you can always feel free to chat with about your studies, career and personal life. The supportive tutors always keep an eye on your progress. I remember my PBL tutors encouraging me to contribute and asking me if I had encountered any difficulties. This was very comforting to me at the time.
The student law firm is also at your backing. Being surrounded by like-minded people who are having similar experiences, makes you feel more at ease. Junior partners, which is something that the Law School arranges for first year students, help freshers in adjusting to PBL.
The beautiful environment
Law students always have their seminars in the Law and Management Building (LMB), which is located on Campus East. Nearby is the Glasshouse and Piazza Building, places which I like to grab lunch between lectures. Campus East has one of the most beautiful sceneries in the university, where ravishing sunsets can always be seen after classes. The LMB building is surrounded by grassland and lakes, this is very comforting, despite the challenging but rewarding learning environment!
Read more blogs about why our students chose York.
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