Mature student — Emma Hunter

Emma explains why she chose to return to education and how she juggles childcare with studying for her LLB at The University of Law

What made you decide to return to education?

I was working part time at a large law firm, and my youngest daughter was about to start school. I was in a dilemma about whether to return to work full time or education to improve my career prospects.

However, I struggled with imposter syndrome. I left school with no qualifications, and I didn’t think I’d be 'smart enough' to do well on a degree. Despite this, I applied to The University of Law for the online LLB. I didn't expect to get an offer, but I did. I thought about turning it down because I was scared of failing, but I knew I'd regret not taking the opportunity.

Why did you choose this particular course/institution?

The University of Law stood out due to its reputation as a leader in providing legal education, and it offered the degree online. I attended an online open day and liked the course format - it looked organised and easy to navigate. Knowing I could fit the studies around my part-time job and caring for my children was the deciding factor.

What are the advantages of being a mature student?

After finishing school, I was uncertain about which career path to pursue. I began working at 17, training as a hairdresser before transitioning into an office role. Throughout my career, I have honed essential skills for success as a student - organisation, time management, communication, and proficiency in various software. Juggling work, a home, and parenting has taught me how to handle multiple responsibilities, which is crucial when studying alongside these other commitments.

What have been some of the challenges?

I had to overcome the challenge of learning how to study, but with The University of Law's resources and support, I managed to overcome this hurdle. Additionally, I struggle with a lack of self-confidence despite performing well in my exams and receiving great feedback. Reflecting on my progress has been helpful, but I'm still working on this. The wellbeing team are very supportive and offer one-to-one support.

How have you been able to use your legal experience on your course?

Before starting my course, I already had a good understanding of how legal practice works. It requires drive and determination and is often high-pressure. My role demands a keen eye for detail, so, at university, I've been able to analyse problem scenarios effectively and identify inconsistencies, which is valuable when reviewing legal issues.

How do you stay organised?

I use a spreadsheet to organise each week and the month ahead. I break every day into 30 mins increments. I add all my essentials such as work, and parental commitments and then look at the time I have left. I then structure my studying around that. I’m very disciplined.

How do you strike a successful work/study/life balance?

In my first year I spent around 50 to 60 hours a week working and studying with little time for anything else. I've learned the hard way by suffering burnout. I've overcome this by making active rest and time for myself a priority. Initially, I thought my grades would take a dip but the rest has increased my focus and I still achieve the grades despite doing less.

What are your top three tips for staying motivated?

• Think of the consequences of not staying on track with your studies. For example, having to cram at the end of the semester leads to burnout and can impact the final result.
• Before applying to university ascertain the purpose for doing so. Without a purpose, it is easy to lose focus.
• Study smarter. By this, I mean prioritise mental and physical wellbeing. I run three times a week and take regular rest breaks.

What are your career ambitions?

I secured a place on the summer internship programme at the law firm I work for, following which I may be considered for a training contract to qualify as a solicitor. Otherwise, I will be sourcing paralegal opportunities.

What advice would you give to others who are thinking about returning to education after a break?

• Be realistic about the time you have to give to your studies and how you will organise your week.
• Studying for a degree is hard so choose a subject you’re interested in. You will absorb the content well if you do.
• Improve your study skills before you start the course. This would have made my first year easier. My favourite is the Pocket Study Skills collection.

Find out more

• Read all about the LLB.
• Take a look at the law sector.
• Discover more about the LLB at The University of Law.