Life on the accelerated LLB

Lara Pedreschi is a first-year accelerated LLB student at the University of Edinburgh, having previously undertaken a degree in history. Lara's goal is to qualify and practise as a solicitor in Scotland.

The accelerated LLB is a basically the four-year LLB condensed into two years*. It provides the foundation for becoming a solicitor in Scotland.

Life on the accelerated LLB is intense. It is fast-paced and hard work yet, most importantly, very fulfilling. After graduating with a degree in history from the University of Edinburgh last summer, the switch to law, whilst a little impulsive, was the best decision I have made. I have just finished my first year of the course and I have loved every minute.

I have found studying a degree the second time round to be completely refreshing. I have developed a new attitude towards studying and I enjoy it so much more now, having what is perhaps a more mature approach. Additionally, working towards a vocational goal is a real motivator, and gives the course a sense of purpose which can sometimes get lost in other degrees. I, and the majority of my classmates, have become obsessed with Scots law, living and breathing it. I never thought I would develop such a strong interest and a drive to do well after having only completed one year of the course.

So here are my five tips if you are going into your first year of the accelerated LLB (and if you’re unsure whether or not to apply, I thoroughly advise you to!)

1. It’s NOT an undergraduate degree

This is completely different to an undergraduate degree. Yes, you do have classes with freshers and yes, you technically are in first year. But there is a community amongst the graduates which is full of people from all different walks of life, different ages and different countries all with the same aim: to throw themselves into this course head first. Consequently, everyone is on the same page at the same time and there is a real inclusive and supportive attitude towards each other.

2. Go to class!

Never miss a class. Perhaps the easier option is just to listen to the lecture online but you get so much more from actually sitting in the lecture, thinking about it after and not having to catch up with 50 lecture recordings come exam time. Plus, this is where I have met all my fantastic friends on the course. I cannot stress enough, the more you throw yourself into it the more you will get out of it.

 3. Get ahead with summer placement applications

Unlike the four-year LLB, we grads have the added task of applying for summer placements as soon as we get started on the course. This can seem very daunting, especially as you write applications telling firms what areas of law you are most passionate about after having been on the course for a month!

However, I have found the summer application process very beneficial. Although stressful at points, it has actually helped me realise what areas I am interested in and what sort of career in law I want. Moreover, a summer placement is hugely beneficial for securing that all-important traineeship.

4. Try to stay CALM about exams

This is rich coming from me: I am the biggest stress head going. Therefore, exam periods are not my strong point, however I am working on it.

It is so important to stay calm and develop a relaxed attitude towards sitting exams. I think there is a tendency on the course to get worked up about exams because we all want to do well. We are very new to the subject area and there is slight pressure as we have all obtained previous degrees. But, precisely because we are already graduates, our previous achievements are a huge bonus. If you do the work throughout the year, come December/May you will be pleasantly surprised with your marks (praying this is true as I write this, waiting for my results).

5. Enjoy every moment of it

I honestly cannot believe that my first year is over! I have absolutely loved every minute of it (admittedly except for my EU law exam). It goes so fast so make sure you throw yourself into it, grab every opportunity with both hands, and give it your all because you’re not going to get an experience like it again.

* The accelerated degree doesn't allow or require you to complete all of the modules available to LLB Honours students. In the two year course, you will undertake the modules covering the requisite foundation outcomes which allow you to progress to qualifying as a solicitor.