Welcome Week at the University of Kent saw hundreds of new law students descend on our Canterbury campus. It was a vibrant start to the academic year, with a packed schedule of introductory sessions delivered by academics from Kent Law School to welcome new undergraduate, postgraduate taught, and postgraduate research students.
The week culminated in the Kent Students’ Union Welcome Fair, which featured over 250 student societies representing everything from academic interests to cultural groups and hobbies. Among them were 12 law-related student societies, including Kent Student Law, Kent Law Temple Society, Canadian Law Society, Kent International Law Society, Law Podcast Society, and the Corporate, Financial & Commercial Law Society.
We spoke with committee members from several of these societies about their experience at the fair — and what they have planned for the year ahead.
European Law Students’ Association (ELSA)
Madalina Gavriliuc, Vice President (Marketing)
“Hi Kent Community! We are the European Law Students’ Association (ELSA) at Kent — an international, independent, non-political and non-profit organisation run by and for students and recent graduates passionate about developing both academically and personally.”
Although “European Law” appears in the name, ELSA’s focus extends far beyond EU law. The society forms part of a vast international network with over 60,000 members across Europe.
“It was lovely meeting everyone at the Welcome Fair on Friday! Despite the weather, the spirit and energy of the Kent Law community were truly uplifting.”
ELSA’s upcoming activities include mock trials, law skills workshops, and prestigious competitions such as the Criminis Moot Court, Commercial Law Moot Court, and the Helga Pedersen Moot Court Competition. The society also hopes to collaborate with Kent MUN, the UKC Debate Society, and other law groups throughout the year.
Criminal Law Society
Mashaal Chughtai, President
“It was fantastic to see so many students interested in criminal law — especially those from non-law courses! The fair was a great success, and we welcomed many new members.”
The Criminal Law Society is planning an ambitious year ahead, featuring guest speakers, solicitor panels, and career advice sessions.
“We’re hoping to host our own mock trials and mooting sessions to help members develop advocacy skills,” Mashaal explains. “We’re also planning relaxed social events like a traditional pizza night with board games and crime-themed movies.”
Collaborations with other law schools across the UK are also in the works.
Human Rights Law Society
Marie Michelix, President
“The Human Rights Law Society had a wonderful time at this year’s Welcome Fair. It was inspiring to meet students from diverse academic backgrounds who share an interest in human rights.”
Students offered many suggestions for upcoming discussion topics, ranging from gender equality and migration to corporate accountability.
The society has a rich programme planned for the year, including panel discussions, film screenings, debates, and socials.
“Whether you aspire to a career in human rights or simply want to deepen your awareness of global issues, this society is for you,” says Marie.
Black, Asian and Minority Ethnicities (BAME) Law Society
Nana Yaa Owusu-Manu, President
“We are the BAME Law Society — a community of diverse individuals pursuing law. Our mission is to bridge the gap for underrepresented groups within the legal profession.”
The BAME Law Society focuses on empowering students through application workshops, professional networking, and panel discussions with industry experts.
“The Welcome Fair was an amazing experience,” says Nana Yaa. “We loved meeting students from all disciplines. This year, we aim to host inclusive events that welcome everyone while maintaining our focus on supporting law students.”
Empowering Womxn in Law
Serena Orme, President
“‘Empowering Womxn in Law’ is a female-led society that represents a marginalised group within the legal industry. We aim to empower women during their university journey and beyond through academic events, socials, and charity work.”
One of the society’s major upcoming projects is a charity ball in aid of the UK Stroke Association and a member’s family personally affected by stroke.
Other events include a Freshers’ Q&A panel, a Halloween karaoke night, and a movie night.
“The Welcome Fair was a great success,” Serena adds. “We were thrilled to welcome many students — law and non-law alike — who wanted to join our community.”
Kent Global Commercial Network (KGCN)
Ryan Wong Ryan Kwan Chien, President
“You deserve more than just another law society — you deserve a gateway to the City, to global business, and to real opportunities. That’s why we launched the Kent Global Commercial Network (KGCN).”
KGCN gives members a competitive edge in commercial awareness and career development.
Highlights this term include:
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Lawyer for a Day: A&O Shearman Challenge with one of the world’s top law firms,
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a hands-on Mediation Mastery Workshop, and
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a Commercial Awareness Game Night with prizes to be won.
KGCN also produces KGCN Daily, a newsletter that makes commercial news quick and easy to digest. Tiered memberships unlock exclusive benefits, including London firm trips and one-to-one CV support.
“Make the most of your time at Kent — join KGCN,” says Ryan.
Get Involved
Kent’s thriving network of law student societies offers opportunities for every interest — from criminal and commercial law to human rights and advocacy. These groups play a vital role in building community, developing professional skills, and enriching the student experience at Kent Law School.
Find out more about all student societies at Kent here, and follow Kent Law School plus the law societies on social media to keep up with society news and events throughout the academic year.