Transitioning into university life can be both exhilarating and daunting. For me, the move from college to university was very transformative, particularly with how dynamic York Law School is. I found myself, not just as a student, but as part of a thriving community. This helped me adapt to the Law School’s unique approaches and discover valuable support systems.
Problem-Based Learning: A Dynamic Approach to legal education
One of the standout features of York Law School is its focus on problem-based learning (PBL). This method challenges students to think collaboratively within their student law firms to solve complex and realistic legal problems, fostering critical thinking and teamwork skills.
Initially, I found PBL intimidating and often second guessed myself as I found it incredibly different from traditional lectures. The shift from A-level research to independent research was also particularly challenging.
However, as time went on, I began to appreciate this approach and how it mimics real-life legal scenarios, preparing us for the intricacies and challenges of the professional world. PBL has pushed me to think creatively, articulate ideas confidently, and embrace a hands-on learning experience.
Modules That Sparked My Passion
As a first year Law and Criminology student, several modules have piqued my interest. Particularly Criminal law and Human rights law.
Criminal law directly links to my studies in criminology as it delves deep into the principles that underpin justice whilst examining the causes and consequences of criminal behaviour. It also helps to bridge theory alongside practice, allowing me to explore concepts like culpability, punishment and rehabilitation, which is central to understanding how justice systems work.
Human rights law, on the other hand, connects the study of law to broader social and global issues. It highlights the role of legal frameworks in protecting individuals’ dignity and freedoms, which resonates with me as I’m keen on advocacy where I can give a voice to those who don’t have one. Furthermore, it allows you to gain an appreciation for the intersection of legal rights and ethics and how they apply to everyday life.
Student Support: Building a Sense of Belonging
The transition into university life was made much smoother by the exceptional student support at York. When I first arrived in York, I was feeling a variety of emotions – excited, worried, anxious, just to name a few. However, in my opinion, from the orientation programmes to the approachable academic staff, the support network here has been invaluable.
I found that my personal advisors were instrumental in guiding me through academic challenges and decision-making processes, while the mental health and wellbeing services ensured I felt cared for during moments of stress. Additionally, connecting with peers through societies such as the law society and the mooting society and the events that they’ve hosted has fostered a sense of community, making York feel like a home away from home.
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