More than a law degree: a student’s internship experience at Leeds

Ananya Gupta, a mature international student on the 2-year LLB at Leeds, shares how an internship at the Lifelong Learning Centre shaped her academic journey and personal growth.

For Ananya Gupta, the decision to pursue a degree in Law at the University of Leeds School of Law was grounded in a desire for both academic excellence and a supportive learning environment for personal and professional growth. 

Enrolling in the 2-year LLB programme at the School of Law as a mature student, Ananya found the flexibility she needed to pursue her goals as well as an unexpected opportunity to gain practical experience through an internship with the Lifelong Learning Centre (LLC).

“My time as an LLC Student Representation Intern was an incredibly rewarding experience that complemented my studies in the School of Law,” she said. “I found this accelerated pathway ideal for balancing my professional aspirations with rigorous academic work.”
Amplifying Student Voice

As a Student Representation Intern in the LLC, Aanya supported several key groups dedicated to student voice at the University, including the Student-Staff Partnership Forum, the Mature Student Advisory Board (MSAB), and the Foundation Year Student Advisory Board (FYSAB). Her role involved providing essential administrative and logistical support for meetings and events. Additionally, the experience gave her valuable experience in valuing different viewpoints: 

The programme brings together students from diverse backgrounds and experiences, enriching my understanding of student life and enabling me to effectively represent a wide range of perspectives.

Leading on meaningful events

One of the highlights of Ananya’s internship was co-organising the Advisory Board Mixer with Lauren Huxley, Student Experience Officer at the LLC. The event was designed to unite various student advisory boards across the University. “I worked on organising the Advisory Board Mixer, which involved liaising with the Equality and Liberation Officer and other members of staff at the LUU,” she explained. 

Despite the short timeframe, she found the project deeply fulfilling. “I really enjoyed this project as it brought together independently operating advisory boards within the University, encouraging them to share insights, collaborate on shared goals, and strengthen solidarity,” she reflected.

Given the tight deadline, setting up the event at short notice was a challenge, but it was also an opportunity to develop problem-solving skills and adaptability.

Skills for a future in law

The internship not only complemented Ananya’s academic studies but also helped develop essential career skills. “The internship provided invaluable practical experience, allowing me to develop communication, organisation, and leadership skills while advocating for student voice,” she said.  

Doing an internship alongside the 2-year LLB programme taught me to manage time effectively and prioritise tasks, ensuring I could excel academically while contributing meaningfully to the university community.

Ananya’s engagement with inclusion and student support at the University added an extra dimension to her legal education. “Engaging with students on how inclusivity and support were incorporated in the University supplemented the analytical skills I developed at the School of Law.”

Advice to future students

To future mature or international students considering the 2-year LLB, Ananya says, “Time management and adaptability are key,” she advised. “The accelerated nature of the programme means balancing academic commitments with extracurricular and professional opportunities requires careful planning.” Ananya also encourages students to make the most of the University’s resources and connections:  “The University offers plenty of resources, from academic guidance to student well-being services, and engaging with these early on can make a real difference,” she said. “Networking with peers and faculty members was incredibly helpful, both for academic success and for exploring career opportunities such as this internship.” Ananya’s time at Leeds has been shaped not only by academics but also by the spaces she found to grow, lead and make a difference:

Leeds provides a dynamic environment where learning extends beyond the classroom, and my internship was a testament to this.

Your journey to law doesn’t have to follow a traditional path. Whether you’re returning to study or or starting fresh in the UK, the School of Law welcomes diverse experiences. Start building your future in law today.