School of Law welcomes new and returning students
The School of Law hosted a week-long induction combining presentations, workshops, and social activities to welcome new and returning taught students.
These School of Law engaging induction events combined information sessions, presentations, workshops, and social activities to welcome new and returning taught students. The induction introduced students to our diverse and inclusive community while providing essential information and advice for success during their time at the School of Law.
Read on to discover some of the messages our staff members shared with our students.
Head of School, Professor Louise Ellison, welcomed new students into our community with an inspiring message: “Congratulations on joining one of the UK’s top law schools,” she said. “We are a strong community made up of diverse students, dedicated academic and professional service staff, and a wide-reaching alumni network. My commitment as Head of School is to ensure you have the support and opportunities to thrive. We have been eagerly awaiting your arrival and are thrilled to welcome you into our community.”
Professor Alex Nicholson, Director of Student Education, offered three pieces of advice:
“First, invest in the pursuit of knowledge: go beyond what is required, bring your own perspectives and voice your opinion. Second, invest in yourself: think of your strengths, your areas of development, and step outside of your comfort zone. Third, invest in each other: this is a community, not a competition. There will be many circumstances outside of the school where you will find yourself having to compete; this is not one of those places. In our School, success for one means success for all.”
Dr Rebecca Shaw, the Academic Personal Tutor Lead, reassured our incoming cohort that support is always available. “Our tutoring system is designed to help you navigate any challenges related to your studies or academic life,” she said. “We are here to support you, so don’t hesitate to seek support when needed.”
Professor Lydia Bleasdale, School of Law alumni and Director of Community Belonging, shared her personal experience as an undergraduate at the School and offered advice on balancing academics with personal growth. “Take time to invest in yourself and your peers,” she said. “Engage with societies and activities within the School and across the university – you have the opportunity to make a lasting impact here.”
Dr James Greenwood-Reeves, School of Law alumni and Equality Diversity and Inclusion Lead, encouraged students to think critically about the law. “In law, it’s not just about understanding what’s legal or illegal. It’s about engaging with ideas of justice and pushing boundaries,” he stated. “We expect you to debate and disagree, but always with respect for different viewpoints.”
Anna Nixon, Student Support and Engagement Team Leader, encouraged students to access support as soon as they need it. “There is a huge range of resources available for students who experience difficulties during their time with us. Don’t suffer alone – contact the Student Support team and we can guide you to the most appropriate service to help you get back on track” she said. “Don’t wait until your assessments to ask for support – even if its just a small concern, the sooner you ask for help, the better!”
A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the staff who helped make the event a success, particularly to Dr Cristina Saenz Perez (Welcome Week Academic Lead), the Student Engagement and Support Team, and our Welcome and Induction Team student assistants, whose efforts were invaluable in making this week a success.
For students, please click here to access our Faculty of Social Sciences resource hub where you will find further information to help you throughout your time at Leeds, including guidance on academic life, student support, opportunities to get involved and key contacts.
