Exams
Firstly, and most importantly, exams. I know nobody wants to think of exams, and I know you may think I am crazy for having them on the top of my list of things to look forward to. But ultimately your passion and ability in a subject is measured by them. The good thing about exams at York Law School is how they are conducted and the level of support you are given.
Rather than having a focus on memory and the ability to regurgitate what you have learnt, at York there is a focus on the application of knowledge. This means that exams are coursework-based and happen at the end of each semester. You are given plenty of time to complete the given task, but also there are several drop-in sessions and lectures you can attend to further aid your understanding.
TOP TIP: attend these sessions even if you do not have any questions; listening to other people’s questions can be really helpful!
Problem-Based Learning (PBL)
If you don’t know what PBL is, what are you doing!? Luckily you have me to give you a brief outline. PBL is York Law School’s fantastic way of teaching law. Remember when I said exams have a focus on applying knowledge rather than just memorising it…? Well, this is another example of that. For PBL the cohort is split into ‘student law firms’ of 12 people. Here you will collaborate as a firm 3 days a week and work on different simulations. This involves interviewing clients, conducting negotiations and carrying out independent research. PBLs are my preferred method of learning as I enjoy collaborating and interacting with other people. This will prove an invaluable skill for any career, especially relating to law.
The Law Society
My description of the Law Society is: a group of like-minded individuals at varying stages of their degree. The perks of being a member are innumerable. You get access to a plethora of events. Whether that be fun socials such as The President’s Welcome, where we were provided with a chance to network with fellow Law Society members over free food and drinks. Or it be formal events such as the Careers Dinner where we were given the opportunity to have a black-tie dinner with Barristers and Solicitors. There is always something going on at the Law Society.
The latter event certainly has to be one of my favourites so far at York as I was able to gain first-hand advice about becoming a lawyer. It was also a great time to let off some steam and have fun with my peers.
This is the most important part of university life as a whole! It can prove difficult living away from home and having to balance things such as cooking, cleaning and studying. Hence it is important to have fun and spend time doing the things you enjoy in order to avoid burnout.
*Me and a friend at this year’s Career’s Dinner*
Hi!
I would like to know about the prospectives regarding traineeships.