Life at Essex: A glimpse into the postgraduate experience at Essex Law School

Deciding where to pursue your postgraduate studies is a big decision, and getting insight from current students and staff can be incredibly helpful.

We sat down with Caitlin, a current MA Theory and Practice in Human Rights s student, to get an inside look at life as a postgraduate law student at Essex. Recently, SoYeon Kim and Uche Nwoke, both Lecturers at Essex Law School, hosted a pre-recorded session with Caitlin and here’s what she had to say about her experience!

Academic life

Caitlin is pursuing her degree full-time, and her course structure is both comprehensive and engaging. She balances four core modules, which involve weekly seminars, independent reading, and a foundation essay module to sharpen her research and writing skills. On top of this, she’s working on her dissertation. What sets Essex apart is the smaller class sizes, allowing students to interact more closely with professors and peers, fostering a more personalized learning environment.

Caitlin also highlighted the dedication and expertise of the academic staff at Essex. "The lecturers have incredible industry experience and are truly passionate about their subjects," she says. This wide range of academic specialties – from business law to human rights – ensures that students can tailor their studies to their interests while also benefiting from valuable networking opportunities.

Balancing studies, work, and social Life

Postgraduate life can be intense, but Caitlin finds a healthy balance between her studies, part-time job, and social activities. She suggests treating university like a 9-to-5 job, with clear study hours and goals for productivity. This approach, combined with a set work schedule, allows her to manage her commitments while still making time for socializing and participating in campus events.

Essex's campus is designed with student life in mind. There’s always something happening, from market days to karaoke nights, all within a secure and welcoming environment. The 24/7 campus security adds an extra layer of peace of mind, allowing students to relax and enjoy their social life without worry.

Student community

Caitlin enjoys being part of a vibrant community at Essex, where student societies like the Law Society and Bar Society offer networking opportunities. There are also many events that cater to personal interests, from arts and crafts to social causes like Human Rights Week. Students can even get involved in organising these events, gaining leadership experience that looks great on a CV.

Student support

Caitlin emphasizes the wide range of student support available at Essex, from career services to personal tutors. The university offers various resources to help students succeed both academically and personally, such as skills hubs, one-on-one tutoring, and social events within the School. The personal tutor system has been especially helpful to Caitlin, providing guidance whenever she’s faced challenges.

Accommodation

For students considering accommodation, Essex provides a variety of options to suit different needs. Whether you prefer a shared flat or a private studio, there are choices for all budgets, with the added bonus of bills and security included. Plus, students get free access to the campus gym—an excellent perk for those looking to stay active!

Career development: preparing for life beyond Essex

Postgraduate students at Essex are well-equipped for the future, thanks to career fairs, workshops, and employability programs. Whether students are pursuing careers in law, government, or other industries, the networking opportunities and career support ensure they have the tools to succeed. The university even offers industry placements as part of some programs, giving students real-world experience that enhances their education.

Final Thoughts: what Caitlin will miss

Looking back on her journey, Caitlin reflects on how overwhelming it can be to start a postgraduate course, but reassures prospective students that the transition is smoother than it might seem. “You have the skills and experience already, so don’t worry too much,” she advises. When she graduates, Caitlin will miss the opportunity to focus on subjects she’s passionate about, a unique aspect of postgraduate study that allows students to dive deeper into their areas of interest.

In conclusion, Essex Law School offers a supportive and enriching environment for postgraduate students. Whether you’re looking for academic excellence, a vibrant social scene, or career development, Essex provides the perfect platform to grow both personally and professionally.