Today we talk with Carla Izabel Da Silva, Commercial Litigation Paralegal at DAC Beachcroft. Carla has passed her SQE1 exam and is currently studying the LLM in Legal Practice with The College of Legal Practice whilst working.
Why The College of Legal Practice?
When I graduated from my LLB in 2021, it was the height of the pandemic. The only route into law that I could see was the traditional training contract route. There was a two year wait from when you applied for this route, and I knew it was incredibly competitive. I was so unmotivated and felt like it wasn’t for me, so I didn’t pursue it. Then I heard about the SQE route, but I felt that I still wanted that well-rounded academic programme. When I saw that the College offered this online LLM focused route that included the SQE preparation needed for the exams, I thought that was the ideal way to qualify for me. I was also very familiar with the process of remote study as my LLB had been like that, so I thought yes, this course is for me.
Reflections on the LLM
As I work as a paralegal alongside my studies, flexibility has been key for me. When you work 9am to 6pm most of the time, you often can’t go off in the working day to lectures so you need to be able to catch up at a time that suits you. The College has put so much effort into structuring the course around that, for example, setting seminars at lunchtimes, and recording all content for later access. It works perfectly around my schedule.
You do have to take it seriously, though. It’s like a second job even when you’re doing the part-time course. You have to put the energy and the effort in to achieve what the course sets you out to do.
What has support been like at The College?
They really understand that students are likely working or will have other responsibilities around study, and build the courses around that flexibility, which has been great.
What are your top tips for the LLM?
At first, it was hard for me to keep up that discipline. I had to time block and get a really set routine in place so that it didn’t negatively affect my mental health. I recommend being specific and intentional with your revision and study time. The College do give you recommended study focuses and what is coming up, so you can plan effectively around those.
Thank you, Carla, for sharing your experiences with us!