Vladyslav Shutko

Why did you choose to study the LLB?

There has been an array of reasons underpinning my decision. Two key ones robustly remain on top of my mind.

1. Desire to not only practice law in the future, however, to gain invaluable knowledge in legal theory, history and philosophy to develop my critical thinking & analysis skills.
2. Thirst for challenges of which LLB is full.

Why did you choose The City Law School?

The fact that City schools law students at all stages of legal education was particularly appealing. This effectively means that those completing the LLB course can socialise, connect, make friends, and compete with the students who are at a higher level of their legal education.

Another influential factor was a recommendation of one solicitor who gave a positive review on the level of education provided by the CLS.

What makes City unique?

1. Convenient location.
2. Diverse contingent of students.
3. Structure of the LLB Programme.

Did you take part in any extracurricular activities?

I have engaged in a variety of activities and strongly urge everyone to go over their limits and experience as many activities as practically possible.

• I am one of the three executive members of the Law Society and a regular member of a few other legal and non-legal City societies.
• City Law School strongly encourages the students to try their powers in moot-courts. I have taken part in few, including City Scholars, Cecilia and other advocacy competitions.
• Micro-Placement Programme (MPP) is another project I participated in.
• CityBuddy is another internal volunteering option that I have experienced.
• Membership of The City Law Review’s editorial board has been an excellent experience.
• Representing two external organisations on City’s campus has proved to be a useful experience.
• Leadership experience, employability programme and a few others.

How has studying the LLB helped you to take the next steps in your career?

Given the challenging nature of the course, I have had no choice but to adapt and learn how to become successful, speaking subjectively, in all aspects of my life, including professional development.

What do you enjoy most about studying in London?

Perhaps a cliché, however, location is the greatest benefit. Not only is the UK’s capital an international arbitration centre as well as a splendid legal history hub, but also it is a place where most of the top-notch legal services providers are situated. Constant access to these is a clear-cut privilege that London-based students enjoy.

What advice or tips would you give to future LLB students?

1. Predominant focus on academia.
2. Use all of the services that City has on offer (ie schemes, programmes, volunteering opportunities, networking events etc).
3. Gain both legal and non-legal work experience whilst studying.
4. Engage in various extracurricular activities, both internal and external.
5. Generally speaking, attain certain positions of responsibility whilst studying to boost your, inter alia, leadership skills.