Hannah – LLB (hons) Law

Name: Hannah

Hometown: Truro

Courses studied: A Level Law, Sociology, Maths, FdSc Law with Criminology and Criminal Justice, LLB (hons) Law

Next Steps: Trainee Solicitor

My Story

Hannah began her journey at Truro College in 2020, studying A Levels in Law, Sociology and Maths.

“I knew Law was a career path I wanted to follow as soon as I began my A Level,” Hannah explained.

At the time, she had every intention of moving away for university, with a place at Exeter in her sights. However, her plans changed when she was offered a job as a paralegal at a law firm in Truro immediately after completing her A Levels. This unexpected opportunity prompted a re-evaluation of her next steps.

“I had originally planned to move away to attend university, however I was offered a job as a paralegal at a law firm in Truro straight after A Levels and so I very quickly had to find a way to study a law degree within Cornwall,” Hannah explained. “I then found out about the law courses available at the University Centre and became enrolled within the same week.”

Hannah studied the FdSc Law with Criminology and Criminal Justice, later progressing to the LLB (Hons) Law top-up. Being able to remain in Cornwall while gaining her degree allowed her to continue her professional role, while also developing her academic knowledge in tandem. The flexibility of the course delivery proved key to making this dual commitment work: “The course was extremely flexible, given that it was condensed into just two days a week,” she said. “This enabled me to work two part-time jobs throughout my entire degree, which, although challenging at times, was certainly manageable.”

The degree provided Hannah with the essential knowledge and real-world understanding that would prove vital in her professional development. “The degree has undoubtedly laid the foundations for my future in law,” she reflected. “I have already been able to apply much of this in practice and the knowledge I have gained will be invaluable during my next steps, being sitting the Solicitors Qualifying Exams.”

She praised the course content for its breadth and relevance, adding, “The course includes the seven core modules in law, as well as in-depth study into the English legal system and a professional practice module which gave practical insight into applying the law in real-life context.”

Throughout her time at the University Centre, Hannah was continually impressed by the academic and personal support she received: “The lecturers were absolutely incredible in providing support both academically and personally. I simply do not believe I would have achieved this without their support.”

One of the most fulfilling experiences of her degree was the opportunity to write her dissertation on Family Law — an area she had become increasingly passionate about through her work. “The best experience I had on the course was being able to write my dissertation on Family Law. Having worked on disputes of this nature, I found that it was something that I had become passionate about and so I was pleased to have the opportunity to research it in greater depth for my dissertation. As a result, my increased knowledge in this topic has complemented my work in my job role significantly.”

Today, Hannah works as a Trainee Solicitor in Family Law. Her responsibilities include drafting legal documents, attending court hearings, meeting with clients, and negotiating with other solicitors. She is now preparing for the Solicitors Qualifying Exams, confident in the strong academic foundation she has built.

Reflecting on her achievements, Hannah said, “I am most proud of securing my dream job and my goal of achieving first class honours despite facing adversities along the way.”

When asked what advice she would give to others considering their options, she shared: “Never doubt your capabilities. I truly never thought I would have been able to achieve what I have, but a combination of hard work, resilience, and the right support can take you just about anywhere.

“I am so unbelievably grateful for the University Centre and the staff who have helped me along the way. I would not hesitate to recommend studying here, it is the best decision I have ever made.”