Molly Hawkins

Please tell us a bit about yourself.

I grew up in Suffolk, studying at the same school from seven through to the end of my A-Levels at 18. After a year out, in which I travelled and worked, I came to Leeds in 2015 to do my undergraduate degree in Philosophy, Psychology and Scientific Thought and I am now studying for my masters in Law and Social Justice.

What motivated you to apply for your course at Leeds?

I wasn’t sure what to do after my undergrad as it was quite broad but I knew I wanted to work for an NGO or humanitarian charity in the future and was interested in social justice movements, so Law and Social Justice felt like a good fit. Also, having gone through uni with a lot of friends who studied Law I had become interested in the subject, particularly the human right side of things, and began to realise that it incorporated a lot of the things I am passionate about.

What is it that makes you passionate about your area of study?

Knowing that the subjects I am studying focus on problems which impact real people keeps me passionate and interested in my area of study. I know that by researching the area and building a career from it I will be making a real difference to social justice issues not only within the UK but around the world.

What do you think of your course?

I like how broad my course is - I study a range of things from human rights and disability to gender and sexualities studies. I also really enjoy the diversity of the students on the course, everyone comes from different backgrounds and has different experiences which makes the seminars more interesting as people offer varying opinions and perspectives.

What do you think of the facilities?

The University of Leeds Law School is a really nice place to be based in the uni. It is modern and spacious whilst also offering practical benefits such as study spaces and communal computers. The teaching is of a really high standard and the seminar leaders and lecturers are still really friendly and approachable.

How do you find the student support in the School?

There is a lot of support for students, with a number of student support officers who all help with different aspects of your studying. There is also a number of different options available for support in your academic work such as Literary Fellows to help with your writing skills and workshops on managing academic stress.

Have you been involved in any extra-curricular activities?

There are a number of activities to take part in such as lots of sports teams and societies which hold great socials. I myself am part of the Law Soc Netball team which is great fun. We have training and play a match every week and have socials about two or three times a term, which are great for getting to know some of the girls in law.

What do you think about Leeds as a city?

Leeds is a great city to live in as there is lots going on but it isn’t so massive and busy that it is overwhelming. There is a really friendly and safe atmosphere which other larger cities may lack.

What would you say to anyone thinking of applying to your course?

I would say that if you are really interested in social justice projects and challenging some of societies biggest issues it is the perfect course for you. By looking at society through the perspective of law and the theories behind the law the course lets you develop your understanding of how things are within the justice system and how they need to change in order to strive for social justice.

What do you plan to do once you’ve finished your course? 

Once I finish my course I will hopefully be moving straight into a career  I am hoping to work for an NGO or charity, preferably one encompassing humanitarian or human rights work.