Madison Larnach

I have always had a passion for helping people and after learning further about the law I began to think that a career in law might just be for me.  I studied law at A level and it was my favourite subject. I had never thought of a career in Law but became interested almost immediately after starting to learn the content.

After visiting Edge Hill I knew it was the place for me. From the campus to the course, everything was exactly what I was looking for. I loved the freedom in being able to decide the areas of law you can study and seeing the extra-curricular activities available through the Law Society, I knew this would be the place best for me.

During my time here I have become more confident. Prior to this degree I found talking to new people and standing up in a room difficult, but through the support at Edge Hill and getting involved in the events and competitions I have grown as an individual.

My critical thinking skills have also developed. I can now appreciate both sides of an argument and develop an understanding of how both sides can be acknowledged in a court of law.

I have also developed my time management skills. With having both exams and extra-curricular competitions I have learnt how to effectively manage my time to ensure all my work is completed to the best of my ability.

The most memorable moment for me would be winning the Internal Bail Application Competition. As a first-year student I didn’t think this would be possible, but this has shown me that I am capable of anything, if I just work hard enough.

My favourite thing would have to be the way you are assessed. Having the ability to be assessed in different ways has been beneficial for me. In some modules you are also assessed in more than one way, so you do not have to solely rely on one assessment for your whole grade which also relieves a little pressure. Whether you are assessed through an exam, coursework, TLA, portfolio, presentation or any other way, there will be something suited to you at Edge Hill. Finding what that something is can then help with module selections later down the line as you can tailor it to how you prefer to be assessed.

The best thing about Edge Hill University is the opportunities it gives you. There are multiple opportunities available within the University. I have already been to The Hauge in the Netherlands and panels in which you can gain a wider understanding of the working of the law in practice. The updates we also get every week regarding opportunities coming up are also beneficial in helping secure further opportunities. Often it is hard to find legal work as you do not know where to start looking, especially as a first year, but the help provided gives you the aid that you need to start.

My favourite place on campus would have to be the catalyst. The building itself is beautiful and the views you get from within are just the same. There is something for everybody within the catalyst. Whether you want to work in a quieter zone but still be able to have a conversation, be in complete silence, or work on a group project in one of the private rooms you are able to book, the possibilities are endless.

When I graduate, I would like to become a barrister. Through competing in the competitions and getting a taste of what it would be like I feel as though this is the ideal career for me. Although I may not know which area I would like to specialise in yet, I know through the vast amounts of options within the University I will find the one that best suits me.

The advice that I would give is take every opportunity that is on offer. Whether that be attending trips, panels or entering the competitions, every bit of experience you get is meaningful in terms of building your legal CV. Not every university will offer the things Edge Hill do so take advantage of it. You will then have things on your CV that will not be on others, making you stand out from the crowd.

Edge Hill has supported me throughout my first year as there is always somebody there to talk to whenever I have needed a bit of advice. If you have any problems the lecturers are always there to help with any questions you may have. There are also others you can turn to within your course in the older years who are also more than happy to help. The careers team are also available to help you with any issues regarding work and advice from helping with CVs to also helping with the application process. Whatever you need, there is always somebody on campus to help.