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Feel at home while studying what you love
About Me
Hi! M I’m studying here at Leeds Beckett University in the LLB program from Ontario, Canada and I thought I'd share a little about my experience; everything from making the decision to study in the UK, to moving to a whole new country by myself and everything thereafter.
Should I Stay or Should I Go
From the beginning of high school I had planned to study law so after I finished my undergrad at the University of Ottawa, I set my sights on studying for the Law School Admission Test. Only this was during the pandemic, when the world was a little upside down and we all had to live life a little differently. The LSAT was being offered online, no large gatherings and all, and I absolutely did not want to take a test that was going to determine if I needed to choose a different career path. It just seemed so daunting and not something I wanted to do. I turned to a family friend who was a lawyer to ask for some guidance on how to navigate the whole thing and that’s when she told me she had gotten her degree in the UK, no LSAT required. I was immediately intrigued and began researching about how one even goes about studying in another country. Thanks to this lovely organization they helped me with everything from filling out applications, writing my personal statement and applying for my visa. Shoutout to my advisor for being the most patient and helpful while I made the biggest decision of my life. After hearing back from all the schools I had applied to, I finally got an acceptance to my number one choice, Leeds Beckett, and thus began my journey to Leeds and LBU.
The Journey
Once I finished running through the house screaming that I got in, it was time to lock in and start preparing for the move. I needed to find accommodation, apply for a student visa, get my student loans in order, the tasks were endless. I did things in order from least to most stressful, just to spice things up a little. I settled my accommodation agreement at Marsden House; Canadian student loans secured, now it was time to apply for my Visa. Full disclosure, the visa process nearly made me quit entirely, so many papers to sign and pictures to take I think I breathed two full breaths during the entire process. With the help of the aforementioned Hilary my advisor and my parents, we finally got approved and it was time to make the big move.
The Destination
Touching down in the UK was the best and scariest moment of my life. It was hard saying goodbye to all my friends and family, their support and confidence in me encouraged me and made me so much stronger during this time in my life. I am also so grateful that my mom made the initial trip over with me as well to help me get settled. She was able to explore Leeds with me, meet my roommates who are now lifelong friends, and see me off. The excitement I had to start the semester and begin my law school journey was palpable. Leeds is a city so full of life and energy, the transition from good ole Hamilton didn’t seem so bad. I quickly discovered that Leeds is a great place for doing things out on the town with friends. If you want to get jiggy with it or get a couple pints with the boys Leeds has a plethora of pubs and clubs to visit with your group of friends after a long week of classes (Spoons and Slug & Lettuce are my personal faves). Hungry? Visit The Light and their many restaurants and then maybe even catch a movie or discover how fast your friends can escape a locked room at Escape Hunt. There’s so many things to discover in Leeds, every day a new adventure, so I make the most of it when I can.
Hitting the Books
Welcome Week was a great opportunity to meet my peers and lecturers, basically get a feel of what the year will look like. The amount of guidance, encouragement and overall support from the faculty and the university was overwhelming in the best way. They want nothing from you but your absolute well being and I really appreciate that, being someone who struggles with anxiety, this helped quell any fears I had about the program and any difficulties I might face. Among the subjects I learned in first year Criminal and (unpopular opinion) Public law were my favourites. Sure, constitutional law doesn’t sound too interesting at first but once you get into the nitty gritty and you’re taught by amazing lecturers like Agatha Fijalkowlski, you’ll be a constitution connoisseur by the end of your first year. Aside from actual law you learn essential skills like creating a CV and how to prepare for an interview, all things that will certainly be useful for you after completing your degree, Leeds Beckett doesn’t miss a thing when it comes to preparation.
Started From the Bottom Now We Here
As I head into level 5, I’m starting to think about what kind of law I want to go into, if I want to be a barrister or solicitor (there is no distinction in Canada however, all lawyers do both jobs), and as a girl who struggles to make decisions this is taking a lot out of me. At the moment my interests lie in criminal family and human rights law (niche, I know). I might even take a shot at working with the Innocence Project and fight to get the wrongfully convicted the justice they deserve. As I continue my LLB journey I know that with all the wonderful people at the Faculty of Law and my personal support system I will be able to find and do something that I am passionate about after graduating. If you’re looking for a school where you can feel at home while studying what you love and gaining so much valuable knowledge, about life and school and everything in between, I cannot speak enough about how Leeds Beckett is the place for you.
Meet with us in Canada
The Across the Pond Advising Team will be on the road visiting students in various parts of Canadal. Want a chance to speak with one of our advisors in person? This is your chance!
Enquire below to receive a full list of the dates and locations across Canada where we will be meeting with students. From graduate and career fairs at universities or schools to drop-in sessions at local cafe's. There are opportunities for everyone. Not able to make it to one of the listed dates or locations? Let us know where you'd like to see us next!
I found the energy of Oxford invigorating
Studying in the UK has been an incredibly rewarding experience for me, and there are several reasons why I chose to pursue my education here.
Firstly, I was drawn to the vibrant student atmosphere that permeates many cities across the UK. I found the energy of Oxford invigorating, and being so close to London provided me with countless opportunities to network within various work communities. This environment has been invaluable in helping me build connections and explore potential career paths.
Another factor that influenced my decision to study in the UK was my family ties to the country. With relatives here, I had always harboured a desire to visit and experience life in the UK. Additionally, I was attracted to the scope of physiotherapy education offered in the UK, which has a positive global reputation and can be easily transferred to multiple countries, including my home country of Canada, as well as destinations like Australia and New Zealand.
My time as a student in the UK has been incredibly positive, largely due to the diverse and inclusive student community I have been a part of. I've had the opportunity to meet and collaborate with individuals from all over the world who share similar aspirations of becoming qualified physiotherapists. This exposure to different perspectives and backgrounds has enriched my learning experience immeasurably.
One of the highlights of my course has been the multitude of opportunities it has offered beyond the required curriculum. For instance, I've had the chance to gain hands-on experience working pitch-side with rugby clubs in Oxford, which has not only complemented my studies but also provided valuable practical skills and insights.
Moreover, studying in the UK has opened up exciting travel possibilities during breaks and holidays. With short travel times to neighbouring countries, I've been able to explore diverse cultures and landscapes that would have been less accessible from Canada. This aspect of my experience has broadened my horizons and enriched my personal growth.
My advisor from Across The Pond was instrumental in helping me achieve my goal of studying in the UK. I was given insight on how to apply to universities across the UK as well as how to write an appropriate personal statement that was well suited from my programme.
Overall, my decision to study in the UK has been immensely rewarding, offering me a supportive learning environment, diverse opportunities for personal and professional development, and the chance to explore new horizons both academically and culturally. I would highly recommend it to any prospective student looking for a fulfilling and enriching educational experience.
Moving to a new country was totally worth it
Moving away from home is no joke, especially if you are a homebody like me who never imagined making such a big move. Reflecting on my first year, I can definitely say that moving to a new country was totally worth it.
A Unique Academic Experience
During my university experience, I had the pleasure of studying both UK and Canadian law at the University of Leicester in Leicestershire, England. It was a bit intimidating at first, but studying law in the UK provided me with a unique academic perspective that I would have not gained anywhere else. The professors, teaching assistants, and academic staff at the Law School were incredibly supportive and dedicated to helping students like me succeed. They brought a wealth of real-world experience to the classroom and tutorials, enriching the learning experience and preparing us for future careers.
Rapid Personal Growth
Studying abroad and moving away from home matures you quickly, especially if you have never done either before. You develop personal and communication skills, becoming more self-reliant and resilient. A new environment forces you to step out of your comfort zone, navigate unfamiliar terrain, and solve problems independently, even though family and friends are just a phone call away. These experiences boost your confidence and adaptability, essential skills in both personal and professional life.
Let’s Talk About Leicester
Living in Leicester has been a fantastic cultural immersion. According to the 2021 UK Consensus data, Leicester is the most diverse city in the entire United Kingdom! The city’s historical landmarks, such as the King Richard III Visitor Centre and Leicester Cathedral, provide deep insights into English history. Additionally, Leicester’s vibrant arts scene, including the Curve Theatre and numerous local festivals – from Diwali celebrations in November to the Caribbean Carnival and Pride – offers a constant source of inspiration and learning. Every experience in Leicester has broadened my horizons and deepened my appreciation for the multicultural society I now call my second home. This exposure has made me more culturally aware and helped me develop a global perspective, which is crucial in today’s interconnected world.
Building a Global Network
One of the most rewarding aspects of moving to the UK has been the opportunity to build a global network. As a student in the 2-year JD Pathway LLB Program, I have met like-minded Canadians from across the country who are navigating law school and living abroad like me. Building these connections has helped with networking and professional opportunities. Additionally, networking with professors and industry professionals has provided valuable insights and potential collaborations that I would not have had access to if I had stayed in Canada.
Some Advice for Prospective Students
Before making the move to the UK or deciding where you want to study, here are some tips that I think are crucial to ensure a smooth transition:
- Thoroughly Research & Apply to Schools: Apply well in advance and pay close attention to application deadlines and entry requirements. Try to understand the specific admission criteria for your program, as they can vary between institutions. If you have any questions about the admission requirements, I’d suggest reaching out to your Across the Pond advisor and the school you are applying for to get some more information about their admission policies.
- Consider Campus Tours: Virtual or in-person tours of campuses are so important! Many universities like Leicester, actually offer open days or virtual tours that provide insights into campus life, academic offerings, and accommodations – check them out!
- Familiarize Yourself with the Visa Process: If you are a Canadian citizen, you need to make sure you check out the UK Student Visa Guidelines as they always change. Apply for your student visa early to reduce the stress of packing. Be prepared to submit any additional documentation (if required), which can be time-consuming to collect and review.
- Prepare Financially: Research tuition fees; this is the biggest thing! One thing that occurs most frequently in the UK is the increase in tuition fees yearly, so be mindful of this! Also research living costs, and available scholarships or financial aid options.
- Join Online Forums & Social Media Groups: These platforms offer tips and support from those who have already made the move or are in the same boat as you who are going to be making the move. This preparation will help you feel more confident and ready to embrace the exciting journey that lies ahead.
Thank You to Across the Pond!
I want to personally thank the Across the Pond team, especially my advisor, for helping make my transition so smooth. I highly recommend using Across the Pond – their advisors are super helpful, knowledgeable and proactive about details that are easy to overlook. From linking my UCAS application to helping me decide which programs and universities were right for me, my advisor and the Across the Pond team strive to ensure you succeed in your studies. Their services were free of cost so definitely consider getting someone to assist you in your application. It is a scary moment for sure deciding to apply to another country where you may be unfamiliar with admission requirements, visa guidelines etc., but this is where Across the Pond steps in to help make your transition seamless.
A Transformative Journey
Moving away was a tough decision, not only for me but for my parents, sister, and of course my dog. But reflecting on it now, I realize how much I have grown. The unique academic experience, rapid personal growth, cultural immersion, global networking and independence have all contributed to making this journey truly transformative. Leicester has provided the perfect environment for me to grow, learn, and thrive, and I’m confident that you too will find the perfect university to call home soon!
Meet us in Canada this fall!
The Across the Pond Advising Team will be on the road visiting students in various parts of Canada this fall. Want a chance to speak with one of our advisors in person? This is your chance!
See below for various dates and locations where we will be meeting with students. From graduate and career fairs at universities or schools to drop-in sessions at local cafe's. There are opportunities for everyone. Not able to make it to one of the listed dates or locations? Let us know where you'd like to see us next!
How Across the Pond Can Help You
Deciding to pursue education outside of your home country is a huge step! As you navigate the research, application, visa, and pre-departure processes it’s important to have someone on your side who can advocate for you to ensure you receive the best possible advice and guidance fitted to your own unique experiences. Across the Pond is here to help!
Can I Continue to Study in the UK?
Have you just finished your degree, and are looking to further your studies? Our advisors have gone through all of the options available to you, so that you can take the degree you already have and specialize in your field of study!
No matter what your field of study, there are options in the UK for you to continue your education and gain qualifications to help with your future career.
Where will I live?
The Benefits of Living in University Accommodation
As a student, one of the most important things to think about before your studies begin is where you’re going to live. The reality of studying abroad is that for many it will be your first time moving away from your family home, or your first time living on your own. Moving away from your hometown is hard enough, but moving away from your country? Many students will get stuck on the “what if’s” before looking into different accommodation options.
Decoding Your Offers and Choosing the Best UK Uni for YOU
You've applied to study in the UK, congratulations! At Across the Pond, we know that you may not be familiar with the types of offers the UK provides, or the next steps. We're here to help you decode the wording on your offer letters, through examples of what you can expect from a university offer. We'll also cover what to do now that you have your university offer, and how to accept it! Tune in to learn all about how to decode your offer to your chosen UK university!