Bethan Lewis

Please tell us a bit about yourself.

I am from the Wirral, which is just over the water from Liverpool. I studied at an all-girls comprehensive secondary school, staying on to complete my A-Levels there. Ill health meant I was to take a year out before moving to Leeds, in which I completed an NVQ in business management through a scheme set up by my school. I applied to Leeds through the Access to Leeds Scheme but fortunately I was not reliant on it to confirm my place as I exceeded my predicted grades. I am the first person in my family to attend university.

What motivated you to apply for your course at Leeds?

Studying Law was not something I had considered prior to studying for my A-Levels, as my school did not offer it as an optional subject. Ironically, I completed a ‘mini-pupillage’ during my GCSEs with Liverpool Exchange Chambers, however I didn’t think it was for me until a few years later. I was drawn to Leeds as it reminded me very much of time spent in Liverpool, which I found very comforting when considering moving away from home. 

What do you think of your course?

My course has been extremely challenging at times, but challenging in a way that has made me realise that I am able to cope and that with perseverance I am a lot tougher than I originally thought. A highlight for me has been contributing to the pro-bono work with the Welfare Rights department of Leeds City Council, which the School of Law has made available for me to take part in.

How would you describe the guidance you've received? 

Having suffered with poor health during my time at university, the staff have been a massive influencing factor in helping me to keep on track and also stay motivated to study and achieve great things.

What do you think of the facilities?

The facilities at the University are great and very inclusive. From work stations, to bars and pubs and great places to eat to even a nail salon… The Student Union is well equipped for a balance between study time and good times! The School of Law itself is very modern and comfortable to work in, along with the great selection of libraries - the Edward Boyle Library is my study place of choice.