Lucy Baines

Combining law with criminology was perfect for me. I absolutely loved A Level Criminology and wanted to continue studying it at a higher level, but I also wanted to see what law had to offer as I didn’t have the opportunity to study it at A Level.

I chose to study at Edge Hill mainly due to its smaller class sizes. I am someone who requires a little bit of extra guidance, especially when I don’t understand a topic, and I felt that I could not receive this at a bigger university.

I also loved that Edge Hill was a campus university, meaning everything was in one place. Visiting and being on the campus also made me feel safe, and it instantly felt home-like, which was important.

Three key skills I have gained and developed are public speaking, critical thinking and problem solving. My confidence and skill in public speaking have immensely improved. I would put this down to practical assessments throughout different modules (presentations and mooting), getting involved in the societies, and being an ambassador for the department. The ability to be a critical thinker is prioritised at degree-level education. The LLB has improved my problem-solving skills due to the variety of assessment types.

The facilities Edge Hill has to offer to enhance your degree. Within the School of Law and Criminal Justice, we have a moot courtroom and a crime house to include practical learning in the degree. The Catalyst is also such a fantastic space with so many resources to aid your study; it is also home to the stellar careers team, which I could not have succeeded without.

I have secured a training contract with Brabners LLP. The firm will fund me through completing my SQEs (Solicitors Qualifying Exams), and I will complete a two-year training programme and qualify as a solicitor in September 2028.

The employability factor of having a law degree is the best part. I did not realise how many careers a law degree opens the door to and how highly it is valued within companies.

My advice to anyone considering studying this degree at Edge Hill would be to just apply. I promise you will not regret it. I was the first in my family to go to university. Visiting the campus also helps to really develop a feel for the place.

The careers team supported me a lot with applying for my training contract. They made me feel highly prepared by going through potential interview questions and tips for my vacation scheme and assessment centre. I truly would not be where I am without them.