Sera Kaplan

Please tell us a bit about yourself and your background.

As I have a Turkish father, I lived in Istanbul until I was four years old when there was an earthquake and we decided to return to the UK. I began school in Manchester where my parents met at University and have lived there ever since.

What motivated you to apply to study your chosen course and why did you choose Leeds?

I decided to apply to study Law because I was the victim of an assault when I was 16, my own personal experience made me start thinking about the legal system and I thought it would be very interesting to study. I chose Leeds because of its vibrancy as a student city and its great reputation within the Russell Group.

What do you think of your course, have there been any particular highlights for you?How would you describe the help and guidance provided by the staff within the School of Law?

Particular highlights of my course include the fantastic quality teaching and the great students I study with.

How would you describe the help and guidance provided by the staff within the School of Law?

The caring nature of staff and willingness to support students is heart-warming; it gives the School of Law a great community feel that not many other courses have.

How would you describe the facilities at the University? 

The facilities at Leeds are amazing. The Edge and the Student Union are my particular favourites; there truly is something for everyone at Leeds.

Have you been involved in extra-curricular activities, such as societies, summer placements etc? How have these enhanced your experience at the university?

I went on a summer legal placement at Squire Patton Boggs after being awarded a scholarship donated by the firm. Each year, the School gives the scholarship to the best “all round” first year student. The Law School are extremely supportive of careers and organise mock interviews and application advice, through a close relationship with the careers service. Since undertaking my placement with Squire Patton Boggs I applied to the firm and have recently accepted a training contract. I will commence my LPC with them on Monday 16 August 2016.

The Law Society is one of the best societies at Leeds, having won a variety of awards. It offers academic competitions, social events and careers events. Most importantly there is a good relationship with the staff at the Law School, which makes the society even better.

These experiences have definitely enhanced my experience at the University of Leeds and the amount of opportunities open to you as a Law student at Leeds is extraordinary, I am really happy with my choice of University and I believe attending Leeds Law School has prepared me for the next steps in my legal career.