Student Profile
Sarah Sistern LLB in Law
What did you like most about the course?
I love the social element that surrounds law. Law students are famous for being one big clique and this made the experience for me. I will never forget the friends I have made at Queen’s and hopefully most of us will stay in touch. On an academic note, when I started studying law I was worried it would be too complicated for me. However, as time went on I began to really understand things that were discussed on the news and instead of finding it daunting, I found it interesting. In final year you get to choose some of your modules, this allows you to find out more about your areas of interest and if you choose the right modules, this will be the most interesting year.
What skills did you acquire during your course?
Planning and attention to detail are essential skills which I have gained during my course. Also, research skills have been extremely important which unfortunately means lots of time in the library!
How have you found the staff in the School of Law?
Being on the student law society committee meant I had greater interaction with some of staff than the average student. At each point of contact I found a team of people who are more than willing to help you and are desperate for you to approach them for advice and feedback. Unfortunately most students don’t take advantage of staff office hours etc. which are designed to allow for this. I encourage their use in future.
How have you found the social life among the School of Law students?
Social life is key among law students. The law society organise a night out every month. These can range from themed parties to an annual formal. There is always a great turn out for these events and there are always great stories to be told afterwards. However, law students don’t need to wait for one of these organised events, any excuse and we will go out for the night. After all, we work hard so we’re obligated to play hard too!
How would you rate the extra-curricular activities on offer at Queen’s?
There are a wide variety of extra-curricular activities on offer at Queen’s. These range from the rowing club to Chinese lion dance society. Basically anything is on offer but it is up to you to get involved. Sign up takes place at the fresher’s fair each year, this is the best opportunity to check out what is available.
Have you taken the opportunity to carry out a work placement or study abroad as part of your degree? If so, what value has this experience brought to your student experience?
In my second year at Queen’s I participated in the London Law Study tour. We went to London for 5 days, visiting 10 law firms. This was a great opportunity to network with people in these firms and to decide if a career in London is for us. Through this program I was awarded the degree plus certification.
What are the best things about being a student?
Freedom. The biggest change and the most exciting thing about becoming a student is the ability to lie in bed all day if you want, to eat dinner when you’re hungry, or to go out and come home whenever you feel like it. As long as you ring home every so often you can do what ever you want at university… provided its legal!
How do you feel Queen’s has equipped you in preparation for life after university?
My law degree has given me a solid foundation to enter a career in law and my involvement in the law society and as editor of The Verdict (the law society publication) have exposed me to working and networking with business people both inside and outside the legal profession, a key skill in any career path.
What advice would you offer new students going to university for the first time?
Be open minded, throw yourself in headfirst, take everything with a pinch of salt and learn to cook a few things.
What are your career aspirations?
I have been extremely fortunate to have a job offer from one of Irelands leading law firms so provided I get into the institute I will be entering the legal profession in September.
