We caught up with LLB Law graduate, Lydia Jones, who was recently awarded the prize for Best Student volunteer in the Law Clinic. Lydia shared why she loved participating in the Law Clinic, her favourite course units and how they aligned with her plans for the future, and her top tips for anyone considering studying a law degree.
Why did you decide to study Law at Bristol?
I decided to study Law at Bristol because it’s a top 10 law school, it offered me the chance to gain hands on experience in the Law Clinic, and the course provides a plethora of optional units to choose from so I could study what I was most interested in. There is a niche for everyone. Bristol is also a great city with a lot of personality – you will never get bored!
What did you love most about during your time at the Law School?
Other than a post-library pint in The Apple, the thing I have loved most during my time at the Law School has been having the privilege to work in the Law Clinic.
I had the pleasure of helping the Save Redfield Cinema campaign group secure St George’s Hall as an ‘asset of community value’, therefore protecting it from demolition.
The Law Clinic had opened so many doors for me, for example I was invited to the House of Lords for the LawWorks student pro bono awards ceremony, where we won best contribution by a law clinic and I was able to meet the attorney general.
I most enjoyed final year as I was afforded the autonomy to choose from a variety of optional units and research whatever I liked. My favourite units were ‘Human Rights in Law, Politics & Society’ and the Research Project, where I was able to explore the rights of nature in Latin America.
Both align with my future ambitions as I aspire to become an international lawyer specialising in human rights and climate law.
Congratulations on being one of this year’s final-year student prize winners! How does it feel to have been awarded the prize for Best Student Volunteer in the Law Clinic?
I am humbled to have been chosen for the award, and pleased to know that my work has made a positive impact on the community. I could not have done it without the help of my fantastic supervisor and clinic director, John Peake, who has supported me every step of the way.
What do you plan to do now you have graduated? What are your plans for the future?
Over the summer I’m working on a project with the University’s Human Rights Law Clinic investigating government contracts awarded to private companies involved in immigration detention and prisons. I will then be starting an LLM in International Law and International Relations in September back in Bristol!
What advice would you give to students currently considering starting out on their path into Law?
You get out what you put in – or in other words – your happiness and success in the Law School depends on taking opportunities and getting involved – no one will force you.
I most enjoyed my time participating in the Law Clinic as it is a great student community, you can gain practical legal experience, it gives you opportunities to volunteer in various other pro bono charities, such as Junior Lawyers Against Poverty, and you are able to make a positive difference.
I would also advise you to never compare yourself to others and think that they’re smarter or better than you – especially if you come from a state school like me.
It’s easy to slip into a trap of imposter syndrome when studying alongside those who have attended private schools and seem miles ahead of you in terms of connections, knowledge, and experience, but you have earnt your place. You are just as capable as everyone else.