Q&A with LLB student, Wadana Khan

What attracted you to studying at Kent?
The fact that Kent is a critical law school caught my attention. As a law student, applying the law to real-life situations is not only endearing but reinforces my aspiration to practice law. The student body seemed incredibly active and prominent at Kent, it made me feel as though my voice would be heard and I will be able to effectively engage in student life alongside academia. The fact that the University is campus-based attracted me to Kent because it meant that everything was convenient, from transportation to everyday needs.

How is your course going?
I absolutely enjoy my LLB course, the academic engagement at Kent is extremely profound, meaning the support you get inside your studies is immense, so you are never lost or worried about how to move forward. This is something very important to me because university and the thought of studying an academically rigorous course can be daunting, so having essential support is of paramount importance, and Kent has never fallen short of that. In particular, what strikes me about my course is that it is intellectually stimulating; one is always encouraged to think critically beyond the required material and challenge oneself intellectually, with the support of the teaching team. Not only has this aided me in achieving my potential but always given me something to think about.

How would you describe your lecturers? What do you think about the level of support in your studies?
My lecturers are very supportive and engaging, the lectures are undoubtedly interesting, and the lecturers make sure of this. The way in which the material is delivered is coherent, systematic and consistent, therefore during lecture delivery, one can follow through in a sequential manner. With regards to the support in my studies, there is always someone to turn to and ask for help and support. Whenever I have needed support, my seminar leaders, lecturers and academic advisor have always been available, and it is truly encouraging to know that unlimited support is always prevalent. The academic advice sessions are incredibly useful, they are a great way of engaging with important matters during the term time and ensuring that one has a thorough understanding of the material related to that session. This can include, for example, exam support. Engagement with the academic advisor is however not limited to these mandatory sessions, one can always approach them throughout the term.

Which modules have you enjoyed the most, and why?
During my first term the module I thoroughly enjoyed was Banking Law. The lectures were exceptionally engaging, and the following seminars cemented my understanding of the material, enabling a holistic approach to the module and a critical perspective to my work. It reinforced my passion for pursuing a career in corporate/commercial law as it gave me the tools to comprehend the fundamentals. During the second term I enjoyed the Law of Tort and Public Law 2 the most. With regards to tort law, it was fascinating learning about the tort of negligence and the wider societal ramifications it has through the multitude of cases we covered. Not only did this make me grasp the gravity of negligent behaviour, but comprehend the detriment it has and the compensation that follows, which may not always reflect what is lost. Public Law 2 was an interesting way of developing research skills and producing work that reflects an in-depth understanding into a topic, allowing for a nuanced perspective to run through the work. The second coursework pertained to a special study, specific to our seminar leader’s area of expertise.

How would you describe your fellow students?
My fellow students are encouraging, enthusiastic and a lot of fun. The time I spend with my colleagues, be it in a professional or personal remit is extremely enjoyable. I learn a lot from my colleagues, and this tremendously benefits my learning as it allows me to develop my thought process and appreciate the variety of perspectives that exist. The motivational mindset inculcated in the students at Kent truly increases one’s drive in achieving the best possible results.

What are your subject facilities like?
The subject facilities are expansive, and they facilitate one’s learning. The Templeman Library has over a million books, some available both in-person and online, so you are never short of resources. It is by far my favourite study area as it has a plethora of environments to engage in, for example group study rooms and silent study areas. The highlight of the law experience at Kent would have to the Wigoder building which contains the moot court and Kent Law Clinic. To have such valuable facilities as part of the student experience, is not only encouraging but makes you appreciate the intellectually stimulating environment the University contains. I have watched a mock trial and a couple of moots in the moot court, and it was truly inspiring to see my colleagues exude excellency, it was a fantastic learning experience. The great work the Kent Law Clinic does and the participation available to students is encouraging as it allows one to appreciate what the legal profession entails in practice.

What kind of career do you hope to follow when you leave, and why?
I hope to become a corporate/commercial solicitor, I have a profound passion to work in the corporate world as I think the critical thinking and peculiar lens required makes you think beyond the obvious and allows you to interact with a multitude of individuals in achieving a common goal. The work of a corporate/commercial solicitor entails working on tasks where the stakes are high and that drive will motivate one to work in a unique manner with an appreciation for the paraphernalia attached to the profession, which I enjoy as it would allow me to build my skill set and work ethic.

Have you used the University’s Careers and Employability Service?
Yes, I have, it is a very useful and integral part of your academic journey. The Careers and Employability Service truly aid you in making the right career decision and giving you the platform to lay down any concerns you may have which are effectively answered. When I utilised this service, I remember gaining great clarity for the professional route I had in mind and following the meeting I received an email from the advisor which contained all the relevant material discussed.

Have you used the Student Learning Advisory Service?
Yes, I have, SLAS have been beneficial in my learning as they help one in approaching the task at hand or university life, such as time management, in a productive manner, whereby the skills acquired led to not only successful results but an effective way of approaching your studies.

What about the social life? Are you part of any societies?
Currently I am the Social Secretary of the Kent International Law Society, and next year I will be the Vice President. Being part of this society has been truly fulfilling, it has allowed me to develop my social and leadership skills and through my work in the society I have met some amazing individuals who I will stay in touch with beyond my time at university. What is phenomenal about the societies at Kent is that they are solely student-led therefore students have the opportunity to drive the impact in any manner they deem fit. For example, I held a session regarding Impact Law conducted by an external speaker specialising in this field; this being the first event I organised, it gave me the confidence to organise more of such beneficial events which are not only interesting for the student community but a way of expanding the reach of the Kent community, through international interactions.

Are you a Student Rep or Ambassador?
Yes, both a Student Rep and an Ambassador.

What are your favourite bars on campus?
I find the food at Mungo’s and Hut8 very tasty and the setting is entertaining.

What was living in University accommodation like?
I have thoroughly enjoyed living on campus, I find it extremely convenient especially as I spend most of my time in the library, therefore commuting is not an issue. Not only this, but I have also made some amazing friends and we have created some amazing memories. I would definitely recommend living on campus, not only because of the ease but for the university experience.

Any advice to somebody thinking of coming to Kent?
Take advantage of the opportunities in Kent and do not underestimate your potential, it may come across as a cliché, but I firmly believe this and I can personally testify to that statement. I participated in activities that I never thought I would, and it has truly helped in my personal development. Take university as the opportunity to build yourself, whether that be personally or professionally, but importantly learn. I cannot emphasise learning enough; university does play a huge role in character development and from my personal experience I have gained a lot at my time in Kent and going into my final year I hope to accumulate my learning and achieve a lot more. Push yourself even when it may feel ridiculous, take the opportunity, you never know what you will get out of it.

Describe Kent in 3 words
Exciting, diverse, prosperous

Where are the top three places to visit in Canterbury?
Westgate Gardens, Whitefriars, and the Canterbury Castle

Where would you recommend for a day out?
Walking down Eliot footpath into town and looking around the shops, having breakfast at one of the local cafés and then going into Westgate gardens and Canterbury city centre is a weekend well spent.

How affordable is it to live in Canterbury?
I think if one budgets then it is affordable, within the remit of budgeting comes spending money at the right stores yet ensuring one has a healthy and balanced diet. In totality, I think it is affordable to live in Canterbury, although I appreciate that as a whole the cost of living has gone up.

Do you have a part-time job?
Yes, I work as a KLS Student Ambassador on campus.