Student ambassador at The University of Law, Poppy Baverstock gives an insight into life on campus, her favourite study spots and the best things about studying in northern city
Legal Cheek is coming to Newcastle this January to host the first in-person Secrets to Success event of 2025. In preparation, we sat down with Poppy Baverstock, student ambassador and LLM Legal Practice (SQE 1 & 2) student at The University of Law (ULaw) in Newcastle to get the down-low on what life is really like as a ULaw student in the Toon.
What persuaded you to study the LLM Legal Practice (SQE 1 & 2) at the University of Law? What stage are you at in your course?
I decided to study the LLM Legal Practice (SQE 1 & 2) at the University of Law because although there are various law school providers offering the course, this was the best fit for me as they have a campus here in Newcastle. I had previously completed the law conversion course at this campus, which I really enjoyed, so I decided to stay for another year. I am currently preparing to take the SQE 1 exams, so I am about a third of the way through the course. I still have the SQE 2 and the SQE plus to complete and the course should be finish at the start of September this year.
What has been your favourite module so far, and why?
My favourite module so far has been Dispute Resolution. This encompasses quite a few of the black-letter law topics and integrates these theories into the practical application of real-life legal disputes. It has been interesting to see how cases progress through the court system and to witness the law in action; trying to balance the needs of all the parties in the pursuit of justice. Practical topics like this bring the theoretical law a step closer to the day-to-day life of a working solicitor.
What’s the best thing about campus life at ULaw Newcastle?
The best part is undoubtedly the access you have to Newcastle University itself. Whether you are already familiar with the campus, or are brand new, you can make the most of everything the campus offers to its students. This includes full access to the 24/7 library, the Phillip Robinson, as well as each of the individual course libraries, and a wide range of student clubs and societies. In addition to this, the ULaw building has its own student union, common room area and holds events too.
Why did you decide to be a student ambassador? What does your role involve?
I have always been active in saying yes to opportunities, and the role of student ambassador felt like a great fit to go alongside my course. The role is flexible, with a hands-up shift policy, meaning you always volunteer your time rather than being assigned specific working hours. My responsibilities are varied and range from attending in-person open day events to answering questions during virtual talks. The role gives a chance for ambassadors to share their experiences at ULaw and help prospective students gain an insight into the day-to-day life of a student.
Where is your favourite place to study and why? Are you a café, library, or at home person?
I am definitely a silent studier! I love any space that is a silent study space, of which there are plenty on campus. If you prefer to work with friends or with a bit of background noise, there are plenty of cafés across Newcastle to study in, as well as dedicated group study areas. The ULaw building has a common room of its own with spaces to sit and work, these are really useful if you have classes close together or need to meet up with classmates before workshops begin.
What is the ULaw campus location like?
The campus location is really convenient. The Haymarket metro and bus stop are just at the bottom of the hill, a few minutes away from the ULaw building. The metro is also connected to Newcastle Central station, and there is a car park close to the building too. The centre of Newcastle is only 5 minutes away and has plenty of bars and restaurants, but many of our classes end in The Hancock which is even closer … and definitely a studenty place!
What’s the best thing about studying in Newcastle?
Newcastle is a great city to be a student in. The combination of a great study environment, a vibrant social scene as well as green spaces throughout the city means you have everything you could need as a student. The city is very accommodating of students and with there being two main universities in the city, Newcastle and Northumbria, there is a strong sense of community and support for students.
What has the academic and pastoral support at ULaw Newcastle been like?
Every student is given a personal tutor who is someone to go to with any initial queries. However, I have found that the Newcastle campus creates a wonderful community and every tutor, even if not your assigned personal one, is always more than happy to talk through questions or answer emails. There is also plenty of contact from the careers and wellbeing support teams. They often send weekly newsletters linking opportunities such as talks and events, as well as reminders for deadlines.
What do you do outside of your studies? How do you find the time to fit in your other commitments?
Fitting in extra commitments is enjoyable, if a bit chaotic! Life at any university can be really busy, especially on a post-graduate course. However, I still find time to take exercise classes and organise beach trips with my friends. I also travel to different UK cities to catch up with old university friends at the weekends – I find the busyness really enjoyable, and the weeks really do fly by. ULaw also integrates consolidation weeks and mock exam weeks in the timetable, meaning there are breaks during term time to either catch up with work or take some time to rest.
What are your plans for the future?
In the near-future, I plan to move away from Newcastle to begin a training contract with a law firm in Cambridge. This will be for at least two years and will allow me to fully qualify as a solicitor. Beyond that — I haven’t really had time to think!
The University of Law Newcastle will be hosting ‘Secrets to Success Newcastle — with Norton Rose Fulbright, Womble Bond Dickinson and ULaw’ on Thursday 30 January, 3:30pm to 6pm. Apply now to attend.
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