Application help!

[natasha.jayne]

Hi everyone,

I am currently applying for LLLM Law Conversion with SQE 1 at BPP and MA Law (SQE1) at University of Law. I studied English as my undergrad, despite undertaking legal work experience and attending open days for Law at Oxford. I now work at a magic circle firm in marketing and my spirit for law has been reignited.

Does anyone have any personal statement examples or tips for applications? I'm hoping to applying for a scholarship as well so any guidance would be immensely appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

Hiya @natasha.jayne

In terms of the personal statement, I really wouldn’t overthink it. This isn’t like a training contract application or even like applying to any other graduate programme; the goal here is simply to give a clear and reflective account of why you’re pursuing the conversion course and what you hope to gain from it. I think a structure that tends to work well is something along the following lines.

1. Start with where you are now: Briefly mention your undergraduate background in English, and that you currently work in marketing at a magic circle law firm. This will help give the reader a sense of your background to date.
2. Then explain your interest in law: Here you can touch on any early exposure (e.g. your Oxford open days or legal work experience), and how your current role has reignited that interest.
3. Explain why you’re applying to this particular course: Whether it’s the LLM Law Conversion (SQE1/SQE2) at ULaw or BPP, say a few words about what you hope to gain from it. If there are specific modules you're interested in taking, you can mention this here.
4. Close with what attracts you to the provider more broadly: You can also mention any other reasons why you're interested in the LLM. For example, the opportunity for more sustained careers support, the flexible structure of the course, or strong professional reputation.

That should comfortably bring you to around 500 words or less. Best of luck!