法学夏令营的个人陈述
I first realised I wished to study law whilst reading a newspaper, when it suddenly occurred to me that every article was somehow related to the law. I remember thinking how amazing it was that such a diverse range of issues could be linked back to a single word. This truly unique quality of influencing all aspects of life (although I am sure there are plenty of economists who would question its uniqueness) has prompted me to read law as an undergraduate. It intrigues me because it is continually evolving over time, faster rate than anything I have met in my current studies, in order to remain a true reflection of an ever-changing society
I built upon my initial interest by avidly reading “The Law Machine” by Marcel Berlins and Clare Dyer; it provided me with a firm grounding in the essential principles of the British legal system and highlighted its apparent weaknesses. To further consolidate my knowledge I read “Learning the Law” by Glanville Williams and have kept myself informed of current legal events printed in the “The Times”, I have also attended a law seminar at King’s College, University of London
I thought it a wise move to pursue an insight into how the law works in reality. I successfully applied to become a Berkshire Witness Service Volunteer and thus embarked on an in-depth training course
This incorporated an introduction to the functions of the Crown Prosecution Service and discussions of the skills required to work with people from many social backgrounds. My responsibilities mainly involve providing emotional support for witnesses throughout their trials, this has helped me develop an appreciation of what the law represents to someone from outside the court system and how deeply it can impact on their lives
In order to gain a different perspective of the law, I obtained a work experience placement with a local solicitor’s firm. My work evolved from basic office duties, such as filing, faxing and answering telephone calls, into accompanying solicitors to court and liasing with barristers on behalf of the firm. The opportunity to work alongside people who have dedicated their lives to the law has strengthened my resolve to study law and given me the confidence to make a well-informed decision
Throughout my school life, I have maintained an independent, self-motivated approach to my studies. Having studied a broad range of A Level subjects, I feel I have acquired a wide variety of skills: from Mathematics and Physics I have learnt the art of questioning the world around us and developing a keen sense of intellectual curiosity; from English Literature and General Studies I have understood the importance of expressing myself clearly and concisely through words; whilst from ICT I have developed a sound understanding of an area which is playing an increasingly important role in society
My role as Deputy Head Boy has helped me gain a sense of responsibility and maturity; tasks such as organising large numbers of people, arranging important school events and making speeches to large audiences have helped me develop strong personal and communication skills. These have been further strengthened through my duties as a sixth form mentor for the lower school pupils, where I provide support and advice for younger pupils who are struggling to cope with the pressures of school life. I have also held positions on the student council, presenting my views and those of my peers to the senior school staff. Above all else, I have learnt the rewards of making a positive contribution towards school life in more than an academic sense and think I can take this understanding with me to university
Aside from schoolwork I have a strong passion for rugby, representing and captaining my school and district at all levels as well as participating in a sports tour to South Africa. My other interests include football, cricket and I am a keen chess player, competing during the tour to South Africa
I believe I can contribute a genuine passion and enthusiasm for reading law; I am hoping to study at an institution which presents law as an intellectual discipline in its own right, one which will allow me to develop the skills of analysis, reasoning and discussion required to be successful beyond undergraduate level.
