Studying abroad was something I wanted to do but never really had the opportunity. When I started considering law school and was researching things like the LSAT (law school admission test), Canadian law schools, articling (a required internship period) and other steps I may need to take to reach my goal of practising law, I came across many blogs and articles suggesting I may be able to reach that goal outside of Canada. This immediately piqued my interest.

Upon starting my research on international study, I found myself incredibly overwhelmed with the sheer number of schools and directions I could go to pursue my law career. I knew I wanted to be in Europe and, with my area in Canada being a common law system, it helped me narrow it down to the UK. Still feeling lost, I decided that there must be a community of people who can help me out. This led me to Across the Pond. I am so grateful to have stumbled upon this company on google that day. They walk you through the entire process of applying internationally and help you narrow down the schools based on your preferences and any existing qualifications. Brittany (my student advisor with Across the Pond) was so helpful and kind guiding me through the process of applying.
 

Why University of Sussex? Why Brighton?

The University I attend (University of Sussex) is slightly outside of Brighton which was another selling factor for me since I am more of a country girl. I’ve enjoyed the vast amounts of trails surrounding the university in Stanmer Park on numerous occasions.  Something Canadian applicants should know is that there is a significant Canadian population attending school here, especially law! The student housing that’s offered is also a great way to meet people and make connections. I love the ‘small town city” feel that Brighton offers with cute markets and social events. Being from the west coast of Canada, the true selling factor of Brighton was its proximity to the ocean. I grew up on a small island and the ocean has always felt like home.

Becoming the Lawyer I Was Meant to Be – Abroad

When I first considered studying law, I wasn’t just looking for a degree – I was looking for a path that would give me perspective, purpose, and the tools to create change in my community back home in Canada.

Today, having completed my law degree at the University of Leicester and preparing to begin the GPLLM program at the University of Toronto, I can say with confidence: choosing to study in the UK was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

The University of Leicester gave me more than just legal knowledge. It gave me the ability to think globally, a stronger understanding of the common law system, and the academic credibility to continue my legal journey in Canada at one of its top institutions. My education abroad didn’t just meet expectations – it positioned me to thrive back home, with a story, a network, and a skillset that truly sets me apart.
 

Why I Chose to Study Law in the UK

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been passionate about justice – not just as an abstract concept, but as something lived. Growing up in Canada, I saw firsthand how legal systems can either uplift or fail the most vulnerable. I wanted to become a lawyer to help close those gaps. But I didn’t just want a legal education – I wanted perspective.

The UK, with its centuries-old common law tradition, offered exactly that. Its legal system forms the foundation of Canadian law, making it the perfect place to deepen my understanding of the profession I hope to enter. And as someone who hopes to work across borders – both in Canada and internationally – I knew studying here would give me the legal versatility and global outlook I was looking for.
 

Why the University of Leicester?

When researching UK law schools, I was drawn to Leicester for more than just rankings – I was drawn to its people. The University of Leicester’s JD Pathway Program stood out not only because of its focused Canadian curriculum, but because of its community. Our class was made up entirely of Canadian students – each of us with different stories, but united by the same ambition: to return home and make a difference.

That created something rare: a classroom where Canadian identity met British legal rigour. We supported each other, challenged each other, and helped each other grow. The professors understood our goals and tailored their teaching to bridge both legal systems. I didn’t feel like an international student struggling to keep up – I felt like I belonged.
 

Campus Life & Making Connections

Leicester itself is a city that grows on you – a place where old meets new, where the energy of student life hums through the streets. The campus is compact but full of life: modern study spaces, green corners to unwind, and cafes where friendships are forged over coffee and last-minute readings.

Even though my class was mostly Canadian, Leicester gave me access to a truly international student body. I joined societies, attended legal workshops, and met students from across Europe, Asia, and Africa. The diversity of ideas on campus was electric – and reminded me that law doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It lives in the lives and voices of those it impacts.
 

Adjusting from Canada to the UK

Leaving Canada to study law abroad was a bold decision – but also one of the most rewarding. Sure, the smaller portions, the different grading system, and the lack of snow in “winter” took some adjusting. But the real shift was mental.

Studying in the UK taught me how to be adaptable – how to take initiative, ask questions, and be okay not knowing everything right away. The learning curve was steep, but it forced me to grow in ways I wouldn’t have at home. And perhaps the most meaningful part? I was learning alongside other Canadians who understood exactly what I was going through – people who became more than classmates, they became family.
 

Across the Pond: The Quiet Heroes

None of this would’ve happened without Across the Pond. From the moment I reached out, they were responsive, kind, and incredibly knowledgeable. They helped me choose the right university, polish my application, and guided me through the maze of visas, accommodation, and preparation.

What I appreciated most was that they never treated me like a number. They understood that this was a life decision, not just an academic one. And they supported it with genuine care. If you’re a Canadian student even thinking about studying in the UK – reach out to the Across the Pond team. They will make what feels impossible feel entirely within reach.
 

Final Reflections

Looking back, I realize that choosing to study law at Leicester wasn’t just about getting a degree. It was about rediscovering who I am – not just as a student, but as a future legal professional.

I came here to understand the law. I left with so much more: confidence, community, clarity, and a global mindset that will shape everything I do from here forward.

The fact that I’m now heading into the GPLLM program at the University of Toronto – a program that completes my accreditation and prepares me for practice in Canada – is a direct result of the foundation Leicester gave me. I’m proud of the journey I’ve taken, and even more excited about where I’m headed.

To anyone thinking about studying law abroad – do it. It will challenge you. It will change you. And it might just become the best decision you ever make.
 

Studying law has always been my dream, however studying in the UK was never in my mind until I learned about Across the Pond. Across the Pond provided me with the information that helped make me come to the UK possible.

At first, I was nervous to come to the UK and start school in a new country with new people however, my Across the Pond advisor helped to make me feel comfortable and prepared with always answering my questions and concerns. She made me feel confident in the decision to study law in the UK with her fast and assuring replies.  

I go to the University of Leicester and the reason why I chose to study here is the large presence of Canadian students. Leicester has the largest Canadian population compared to other schools in the UK and due to this our Canadian Law Society is also the largest. This was definitely one of the factors that made me come to the UK and choose Leicester. The Canadian Law Society helps us to go back to Canada prepared. There are various academic sessions for LLM programs, as well as NCA sessions. Through these sessions, coming to the UK makes you feel less worried for when you go back home. Moving to the UK is a big deal, however, because I am still surrounded by Canadians it helped to make the transition easier. I am doing the 2-year JD Pathway program, and this appealed to me as Canadian programs are 3 years. In 2 years here, I will be able to learn law, travel and grow into an independent individual.

Our Canadian law originated from the UK and professors here do touch on Canadian, as well as American law. At Leicester, we are also required to take 2 courses in Canadian law which helped to reassure me when I come back to Canada that I won’t be at a disadvantage. There are many support systems here as well, such as personal tutors and weekly tutorials. The personal tutors are here to offer us guidance while we are here, so we don’t feel too alone. The tutorials have around 8 people in them and we go through specific questions to help deepen our understanding on specific classes and topics.

Overall, there are many reasons I chose to study in the UK such as the length of the program, the large Canadian presence, and the travelling aspect. I am really glad I chose University of Leicester as I truly feel like I fit in here, and the program so far has been amazing. I am also planning many trips with other Canadians which is something that has definitely been on my bucket list and is now being fulfilled. I am so thankful for Across the Pond as they made my transition to the UK so smooth, as well as making me feel prepared and assured that this decision was the best for me.

If you would like to get more information, please contact an Across the Pond advisor, you will not regret it! As said above, my advisor answered ALL my questions (no matter how stupid they were) and all my concerns were addressed. Across the Pond also provided webinars for the visa process and what to expect in the UK which truly helped me and my family in feeling like I knew what I was getting myself into. Once again, click here for more information.

--Kiranpreet

Join our advising team as they go over common myths and misconceptions about studying in the UK, to help you feel more confident in your decision to study abroad! Will your degree really transfer back? Do you have to like tea? Tune in to find out!

It can be frustrating to reach a decision on your next steps only to realize you have to wait before you can actually apply and get things underway. But what you might not realize is that we work with many students in this situation. We are happy to help you identify ways that you can get started on your application process and as a bonus you'll help to make things easier for yourself down the road. 

Join our advising team as they detail their top tricks, tips and advice for preparing for your applications early. If you are interested in studying in the UK in a future year, this webinar will cover the little things you can be doing now that make a big difference later.