Alberta Amagbe

Please tell us a bit about yourself

I am Alberta from Ghana. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Ghana. I worked as a paralegal in one of the renowned Law firms in Ghana.  I also hold an MBA from the University of Aberdeen. I am currently pursuing a second master's in International Corporate Law (LLM) and I serve as the PGT student representative for the law faculty. I'm lively, and family orientated. My hobbies are reading, cooking, football, and swimming.

What made you want to apply to your course and to Leeds?

My interest in pursuing a law degree developed after my MBA programme. I wanted to study International corporate law to gain a wider understanding of rules, regulations and policies governing the scope of business operations. Thus, I wanted to gain in-depth knowledge and expertise regarding the global legal regulatory standards of international corporate law and corporate governance.

Amongst the numerous universities I researched, the University of Leeds was my first choice because of its reputation. It is recognised as one of the best Law schools in the UK. The structure of the course includes a study of current concerns, as well as a critical review of legal laws, regulations, theories, and underlying policies in corporate law. Aside from academic support, the school also had a personal development programme and skills support for students. In addition, the University is equipped with high standard facilities to aid studies and the well-being of students. Indeed, the location of the university in the centre of Leeds was also a deciding factor. Leeds is known for its diversity and is one of Britain’s major cultural centres. I had once visited the city and I could not stop imagining living and studying here.

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

Having studied business administration in the past, I believed having in-depth knowledge of law would help shape my career as a business consultant. I believe the corporate world evolves around rules and regulations and to be critical in understanding business models and mechanisms, the study of law is crucial.

What do you think of your course so far?

The School of Law has a vibrant and diverse intellectual community. Although I do not have a background in law, my course has been very interesting and interactive. The course structure and content are exactly as expected as it focuses on critical evaluation of contemporary issues. Generally, in-depth research and critical reflection on topics are encouraged. The course coordinators, lecturers, and industry professionals are also of great expertise. Another aspect of the course that I enjoy is the seminar and one-to-one support hours. Students are allowed to express their understanding of topics in the quest of seeking guidance.

What would you say about the learning facilities at the University of Leeds? 

The university is highly equipped with high standard learning facilities. Ranging from libraries, gyms, lecture rooms and other social amenities. There are different libraries with different seating and serene environment. The collection of materials, books, media etc, are easily accessible online and in the libraries. Specifically, the law school has spacious study rooms, classrooms, and lounges. It has a great layout and inscriptions to easily identify offices and lecture rooms. My favourite place is the moot court, is well-structured and surreal.

How do you find the student support from the school?

The student support experience is one of my best moments at the university. I appreciate the fact the school seeks the well-being of students and provide support to bring out their best. Amazingly, each student is allocated to a personal tutor to whom they could go for advice and guidance regarding, academics, career, etc. My personal tutor for example has been of great help to me throughout my experience at the university. They always try to fix me into their busy schedule whenever I reach out for an appointment and that’s something I never experienced in my past studies. Other supports such as the career centre, student well-being and one-to-one academic support are great initiatives.

What other activities are available for students to take part in outside of their studies, and which ones have you tried out yourself?

There are many extra-curricular activities available for students. Ranging from clubs and societies, volunteering programmes, fun trips, etc.

I am currently a Postgraduate student representative of the Law school, where I represent students in partnership meetings, student staff forums and other education boards. My experience has given me much exposure and enhanced my leadership and communication skills. I have also volunteered in a well-being exercise where we engaged with students to know how they manage their well-being.

What do you think about Leeds as a city?

Leeds is a great and fun city to live in, especially the nightlife. I could not think of living anywhere else than here. The social amenities and easy access to the shopping centres, gym, restaurants, transportation, and the likes are everything one needs to settle in. One of my favourite places in Leeds is the Leeds market where I could get Ghanaian foodstuff. Leeds city is amazing.

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

I would recommend International corporate law (LLM) to anyone passionate about having a critical understanding of law and regulations which would aid in their career aspiration. There is a vast number of modules to choose from to suit your expectation. And most importantly, the course content and structure, learning and teaching method would strengthen your legal research and writing abilities.

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

My utmost career aspiration is to become a consultant and I have currently gotten a graduate scheme opportunity in one of the highly recognised consulting firms in the UK where I hope to gain in-depth knowledge and experience in business consultancy. I also wish to become a qualified solicitor and therefore plan to complete the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE).

Any other comment you would like to make?

I have had a great experience studying at the University of Leeds and would always welcome the opportunity to study here in the future.