LLB Law
“Having spent a week working with their trainees across various departments, I knew that, a few years down the line, I wanted to be in a similar position to them”
Soon after starting his law degree, Lawrence De Souza became involved with the Oxford Brookes Student Law Society, seizing the opportunity to develop practical legal skills and begin building professional networks.
Prior to starting at Brookes, I was studying A Level Economics, Government and Politics and Law at St Dominic’s Sixth Form College in Harrow. During my A Levels, I was lucky enough to obtain a work experience placement at Pinsent Masons which is a top 15 UK law firm.
Having spent a week working with their trainees across various departments, I knew that, a few years down the line, I wanted to be in a similar position to them. Coupled with my inspirational A Level Law teacher, Ray Hopkins, choosing Law made perfect sense.
The most attractive thing about the Brookes course was the fact that the University is well known for being good for Law. In addition, the mock trial mooting and client interviewing opportunities were also attractive as experience is absolutely essential for any aspiring lawyers. The School of Law and Social Sciences is renowned for its success in national and international competitions. Brookes is one of the few universities that runs an undergraduate module called Communication Skills for Lawyers which involves advocacy and client interviewing giving students a head start for the Legal Practice Course and the Bar Professional Training Course.
The standout member of the law faculty is Andrew Kopkin. A true champion of the students, he has been a key component of my success in mooting and regularly goes beyond the call of duty to assist students. He is very approachable and provides excellent careers advice.
Last academic year, I was elected Treasurer of the student Law Society and it has been an incredible experience. We have secured sponsorship from firms such as Jones Day, RPC and SNR Denton and hosted events with them where our members can meet their trainees and talk to their graduate recruitment teams which, as many law students will know, is a great opportunity to network.
Oxford is a very student friendly city. I would highly recommend any prospective students considering Law at Brookes to spend a day in the city centre and get a feel for the place. Great cafes, bookshops and restaurants with many offering student discounts. I will miss Oxford a great deal when I graduate.