need some advice on what to do

[iram06x]

I recently got the results from my A level retakes, last year I got CCD and this year I got BCC. I got in to Aston university for Law but I also got in to the University of Liverpool for Politics. I'm really not sure what the best option for me would be. I was settled on Aston and even confirmed my place but I am still thinking about Liverpool and how much having a russel group uni on my CV would benefit me when it comes to training contracts. However, at Aston I would be able to stay at home, save money, have a placement year, take part in multiple legal experiences like law clinics and mooting that I probably would not be able to access in Liverpool. Many people have told me to just go to Liverpool but I'm just unsure if that's really the best thing to do. I've heard many success stories from people who went to Aston Law and got in to firms like Freeths and Irwin Mitchell.

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Hi @iram06x


Well done on securing offers from both Aston and Liverpool. That’s great and I hope you enjoy your degree, regardless of where you end up. Just wanted to get a few thoughts for you.

First, please don’t let your A-level results knock your confidence. What matters now is how you move forward, and many people have gone on to secure training contracts with similar grade profiles. Focus now on what's in your control, and wha you do with the opportunities available to you at either Aston or Liverpool.

I wouldn't underestimate the importance of many of the practical benefits you identified about going to Aston: the chance to live at home, save money, and access a placement year, mooting, clinics, and more. These advantages can potentially allow you to academically excel much more easily. Some of these kinds of experiences (e.g. clinics/mooting) are also extremely valuable when it comes to applications.

As for Liverpool, yes some firms do value a Russell Group name, but I think far too much is made of Russell group names. It’s definitely not a ticket to success on its own and studying law absolutely doesn't, by itself, open any doors. Many people convert from non-law degrees and go on to thrive. I firmly believe that what matters more is that you demonstrate a strong academic track record going forward and build a compelling case for your interest in commercial law, which you can do from either university. Whether you go to Aston or Liverpool, I’d suggest trying to:

• Aim for a high 2.1 or First, especially in your first year (this can help when applying to firms in your second year);
• Join any student societies connected to commercial law or mooting;
• Apply for insight schemes and open days early on in your first year, since many are open to first-years and don’t require much legal experience (and you can start drafting these apps now for the current cycle before your studies begin);
• Start building your commercial awareness; more than having a Russell group university on your CV, this is what will allow you to stand out during the application process.

There’s absolutely time and space for you to grow into the kind of candidate firms are looking for. Try not to worry too much about what others say, I think the right choice is the one that speaks to your priorities (and where you think you’ll thrive both personally and academically). Either Liverpool or Aston can work here, but trust your own judgment in the process.