Studying Law in the UK

by Alecia Spence

Studying law in the UK has been a
fascinating and rewarding experience; due to the course of development, the law
has taken. From a Public Law point of view, the law or Acts of Parliament has
taken a political position, as the UK is embarking on attempting to leave the
European Union. Studying law in the UK has allowed me to experience history in
the making, and observe as new laws and treaties come to pass. I enjoy going to
my European Union Law lectures and seeing my Professors get excited
about the latest development in Brexit (the UK’s attempt to leave the
EU). It is a privilege to be in the UK and experience how this change may
impact or affect the UK citizens and also the relationship the UK may have with
the EU going forward.

Overall the first two months of living and
studying law in the UK (Swansea, Wales) has been a learning curve, both
socially and academically. The structure of the course and assessments are
different, as the modules are graded by only one exam or an assignment that is
weighted a hundred percent (100%). In general, there are eight core modules
taught in every law degree — the first year focuses on four of the eight-core
modules. The modules are separated into two semesters (part one and part two); for
example, Contract Law 1 runs from October- December, then breaks for Christmas
and exams commence in January. Contract Law 2 then runs from February-June
with a month break between March and April.

Socially there are different customs in
the UK I was unaware of before moving here. Prior to living in the UK it was
uncommon to hear that Black History Month was celebrated in October. I have
always grown up celebrating Black History in February, therefore celebrating in
October was a culture shock. I assumed that globally, Black History Month was
celebrated in February. However, my school did a great job of hosting many
Black History month tributes and awareness around the school. They had flags
from different countries representing black cultures and communities. I enjoyed
attending the cultural ball where we all dressed up in our cultural garments
and represented our different Carribean or African cultures. I learnt that the UK celebrates
Black History Month in October because traditionally, African chiefs and leaders
gathered in October to settle their differences. Another interesting fact is
since the academic year begins in October, it would give black children
(students) a sense of pride and identity. 

Another social and cultural event that I experienced was Guy
Fawkes Night. Guys Fawkes Night is celebrated annually on November 5^th.
Historically, in 1605 thirteen young men decided to blow up the House of
Parliament, amongst them was Guy Fawkes, who was set to fire the barrels of
gunpowder. However, King James was alerted about the plan and executed Guy
Fawkes before he could blow up Parliament. Thereafter every November 5^th,
they celebrate Guy Fawkes Night. However, I am confused if the fireworks are
celebretaing his execution or honouring his attempt to blow up Parliament.
Never-the-less the fireworks on the beach were magical.

            Overall, studying in the UK is very
eye-opening. I enjoy that I am learning history has it unfolds, and I also
enjoy learning older customs, traditions and history. I am fascinated every day
by how different it is Across the Pond!

If you would like to find out more about
studying in the UK, please contact one of our advisors.