Studying law at LJMU is 'one of the best decisions I've ever made'

Katie Barker originally wanted to be a dentist, but not receiving the A-level grades that she needed meant she had to rethink her university options. She decided to pursue law and today describes this as ‘one of the best decisions I’ve ever made’.

“My journey into law wasn't exactly a traditional one,” says Katie. “I came from an entirely science-based background with the intention of going into dentistry. However, on results day I didn't get the grades I needed to secure a place, so I entered Clearing.”

Knowing that she wanted a career that combined working with people, whilst still being intellectually challenging, and that friends and family recognised her natural abilities to win any debate, law seemed like a natural option for her to explore.  

I had heard great things about LJMU and its reputation for supporting students. Since I had no previous experience of studying law, I knew I'd need a university that would help me make that transition. I called LJMU through Clearing, and after speaking with the team, I was offered a place on the Bachelor of Laws with Honours (LLB) course. Looking back now, it was one of the best decisions I've ever made. What started as an unexpected change in direction turned into a career path that I genuinely love.

From considering dropping out to top student

While the change in educational path was an exciting one for Katie, she did question and doubt whether she was cut out for studying law and even began the process of withdrawing from her course and returning to a science-focused topic. But with grit, determination, and support from LJMU School of Law and Justice Studies staff, Katie is now a proud graduate recognised with the school's top student award and the Liverpool Law Society Prize.

“I promised myself I'd give it absolutely everything so that, whatever happened, I'd know I'd tried. I booked one-to-one meetings with my lecturers, threw myself into seminars, asked every question I could think of and wasn't afraid to admit when I didn't understand something. I became determined to prove myself wrong.

My lecturers played a huge role in helping me through that period. They took the time to listen to my worries, reassure me and patiently explain concepts that I was initially struggling to understand. They never made me feel like my questions were insignificant and they created an environment where I felt comfortable admitting when I needed extra support.

“Their belief in me, especially during a time when I was doubting myself, gave me the confidence to continue and achieve things I never thought possible. I will always be incredibly grateful for their guidance and support.”

‘Talented students are supported to believe in themselves’

LLM Legal Practice (SQE) Programme Manager, Ian Bowden, is one of the staff members who Katie credits with helping her to navigate not only the academic side of studying law but also developing the skills and confidence needed for employability

Ian said: “Katie's story reflects something we are enormously proud of at LJMU. Our staff work hard to create an environment where students feel supported, challenged and encouraged to achieve their potential. Sometimes that support comes at important moments when a student needs reassurance that they belong and can succeed. Katie seized that opportunity and did the hard work herself, and her success is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when talented students are supported to believe in themselves.”

Job secured at dream legal firm

Katie secured a paralegal role at her dream firm, Liverpool-based DWF, prior to her graduation and has been working at the firm since May.

Katie said: “The more I engaged with the course, the more I enjoyed it, and once I started enjoying it, my confidence grew and my grades began to reflect that. Looking back now, I'm so grateful that I didn't walk away at that point because staying has led to opportunities and achievements that I never imagined when I first started.

“My goal is to continue working hard, learning from those around me and developing as a legal professional. In the future, I hope to secure a training contract and work towards qualifying as a solicitor. I’m looking forward to continuing to grow within the profession and building on the foundations that LJMU has helped me create.”

Ian added: “Katie embodies many of the qualities that employers look for in future solicitors. She is hardworking, professional, reflective, and genuinely committed to her own development. Her recent success in securing a role at DWF is a testament not only to her academic achievements but also to the effort, positivity, and professionalism she consistently demonstrated throughout her studies. It has been a privilege to watch her flourish during her time with us, and I have no doubt that she has a very bright future ahead of her.”

Advice to anyone facing adversity during their studies

And for any student facing challenges and reconsidering the topic they are studying at university, Katie’s advice to you is: “Give it everything you have before making that final decision. Throw yourself into the opportunities available to you, attend your lectures and seminars, ask questions and explore the different paths your degree can take you down. Most importantly, remember that you are not alone.

It is completely normal to struggle at university and finding something difficult does not mean you are not capable of succeeding. Sometimes what you need is the right support, a little bit of perspective, and the time to find your confidence. Looking back now, I am so glad I chose to persevere.

Katie was joined by family and friends at her graduation, who she also credits for backing her during her studies. “This achievement is not just mine; it is a reflection of the people who have stood beside me and supported me every step of the way.”

Thursday at graduation

Katie was among nearly 1,000 graduates who received awards at Liverpool Cathedral on Thursday 23 July.

Thursday’s graduates were from:

• School of Law and Justice Studies
• Liverpool School of Art and Creative Industries