Mahnoor is an LLB student at The City Law School.
What motivated you to study at university?
My decision to pursue higher education at university, particularly in the field of law, stems from a combination of personal aspirations, familial expectations, and a desire to contribute meaningfully to society. I believe education is the stepping stone that opens doors to the world for you.
Having always wanted to be a strong, independent woman, I looked forward to a university degree that would not just equip me with subject knowledge but also give me exposure to what the real world looks like.
Why have you chosen to study Law?
Being bold, opinionated and the first to study Law in my family brings itself challenges I’ve yet to overcome but look forward to, nonetheless.
However, my interest in a legal career stems from my interest in working on legislations and how that is a way to correct many wrongs in the world.
Having spent two years in Pakistan for my A levels, I noticed the dire need for laws that gave women their rights in a patriarchal society.
Hence, I believe pursuing a law degree can give me the required skillset to aid my dream of making my country safer for women by working on stricter laws that protect them.
How are you finding studying in the UK?
I am absolutely loving being in London! It is everything I imagined it to be and more still. Studying here, in the heart of London, has let me explore the most beautiful London neighbourhoods, try the most delicious foods and travel to cities outside of London with friends when taking a break from university work.
Being here really gives you the chance to build character, have a story to tell for the rest of your life with memories you can never forget.
It is quite different to Pakistan however, the fact that the city is so multicultural means you come across people that speak the same language more often than you would imagine, building little connections everywhere you go.
What opportunities and experiences has the rest of City offered you so far?
City and the City Students’ Union hold a range of events that we as students can attend. They can be academically enhancing and a chance to socialise.
I have enjoyed the opportunity to work with Unitemps to build my CV and get work experience in several fields.
Other than that, I have had the chance to meet people from all over the world, build meaningful connections and explore one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
I have particularly enjoyed Pakistan Society's events as they feel like a little home away from home with my culture being celebrated here.
If you could do any job related to law in the world, what would it be and why?
I would love to be a legislator in the United Nations. Legislators have the means and resources at hand to take action where necessary.
Being involved in policy development and decision-making that shapes society, would give me a real chance to make a difference.
Working as part of the UN would let me work on international law policies that affect the entire world, letting me contribute to policies that make the world a better place such as strict legal action to be taken over any immoral or inhumane act to ensure there is justice.
What advice would you give yourself before you started at The City Law School?
I would tell myself to embrace what the future holds without worrying too much about anything as when the time comes by, everything works out well in its own ways.
Also, people often scare law students saying once they start law school, they will not be left with time for anything else but that is really not the case.
As long as you can manage your time well and not let things pile up, getting through law school while enjoying your life is very much possible!
So, try to just enjoy this time because it goes by really quick, make every day count and make sure you never forget your priorities so while studying, focus on your post-graduation goals such as attaining a training contract!
What are your career plans and how is City preparing you for them?
I am an aspiring solicitor and hope to work in one of the firms close to City after I graduate. As City is based in the legal heart of London it provides us with support to build our careers through employability events and career fairs.
Most importantly, the career support available to us in the form of personal appointments with Career Guidance counsellors gives us the opportunity to get expert advice on not just our career plans but also CV reviews, help with applications and mock interviews.
I have discussed my goals and how to get there with the counsellors and they have provided me with resources and advice for me to reach my goals.