What do students who have consulted with John G. Kelly have to say?
From: Ambika A.
Fall 2011
As I sit in my flat on the campus of the University of Kent in Canterbury, England...I take a glance outside of my window thinking that today is the first day of a new chapter in my life. Today is my first day of law school in the Graduate 2 year LLB Programme at Kent Law School. It feels quite different that after 18 years of primary, secondary, and post-secondary education, I'm finally able to pursue my dream. In 2009, a friend of mine (in a similar programme) recommended Mr. Kelly's name to me, and I became aware of the many opportunities being available in the UK to obtain a law degree. Today, my dream of going to law school has come to be because of Mr. Kelly.
John convinced me that my honours degree in Political Science would work in my favour in order to pursue a law degree in England. I would be able to complete a law degree in 2 years instead of the normal 3 years because of my education so far. He helped me throughout my entire application process, without any hesitation. John always returned or answered the series of my annoying emails or phone calls with gratitude. The help and guidance that I received while filling out my applications from him was phenomenal. It is because of him that I am attending my first day of law school today. He is truly a man who works endlessly to help Canadians pursue there dream into becoming fine lawyers. He is a selfless individual who is passionate about what he does and is dedicated to helping individuals. I am indebted to Mr. Kelly and Canada Law From Abroad forever for helping me pursue my dream.
As I leave for my first law class today, I thank you Mr. Kelly. You are an amazing human being who has undoubtedly made a difference in my life; you have given me the opportunity to pursue my dream.
From: Matt A.
Fall 2011
I graduated from university and always played with the idea of furthering my education and applying to law school. Instead, several years had gone by and I still did not apply. This was mainly due to the horror stories I'd hear about the lengthy process and extreme difficulty of getting accepted into a law program in Canada. Having two friends who had attempted to do so and failed, did not help me either.
I had been previously advised that there were opportunities to study law internationally and be able to return and practice law here in Canada. I began doing some research, and by chance, I stumbled upon John's website. The idea of going to school in a completely different country appeared unreal and extremely daunting, but after going through the website's breakdown of the entire process, my worries vanished. Any further queries or concerns I had were professionally and promptly answered by John, whether by phone or e-mail. Canada Law From Abroad showed me that there was an alternative opportunity to study law and obtain an experience like no other.
I took the chance and applied to several UK schools under John's guidance. It would be an understatement to say that his assistance was absolutely instrumental in my successful entry into law school, because just over a month later I was accepted into the University of Sussex.
Without a doubt in my mind, I whole heartedly recommend Canada Law From Abroad to anyone who is interested in studying law and is looking for an alternative to Canadian schools or just looking to gain international experience.
From: Balwant (Ricky) R.
Fall 2011
I first met Mr. Kelly at an LSAT prep seminar. I encountered him many times thereon after at a number of law school related events held by various institutions. Prior to speaking with him, I was absolutely unaware of the opportunities that existed abroad. Today, I am proud to say that I am an LLB candidate from a top tier university. John facilitated the application process from start to finish. He was incredibly diligent and professional in ensuring that all of my questions and concerns were answered and addressed. He was incredibly hard working, timely and persistent in ensuring that any new information I passed on to him was passed on to admissions officials at various universities in the UK. He also ensured that the universities understood my application by putting my qualifications into perspective. I highly recommend Mr. Kelly and his services. He is an expert in the field and an incredible resource for all students seeking admission in law schools abroad.
From: Danny G.
Fall 2011
I have seen many reviews written about universities and terms abroad and they all include general and ambiguous phrases on how awesome an experience was or how they have had the time of their life. My name is Danny G. and I am a 1st year Senior Status student at the Queen Mary University of London Law School and this is my experience which Canada Law from Abroad and Mr. John Kelly have made possible.
In terms of the university itself I must say that the biggest surprise and my biggest delight was how many Canadians were at QM. Not only are there a lot of Canadian students but even some of our teachers and tutorial instructors are Canadian. There is also a considerable mix of students from all across the European Union, but Canadians had to be the largest foreign group at the law school. Throughout each of our courses various other common law legal and political systems are mentioned with Canada probably being the second most referenced foreign legal system. I had a cousin who graduated from Osgoode Hall Law School and when we compared notes we realized that most of the fundamental cases, legal scholars and important judgments,, that we both studied were essentially the same.
In terms of the academic structure of QM there are only two material differences I have seen between Canada and UK Universities. First is the fact that the entirety of your final mark is based on your final exams. You do receive assignments and mid terms throughout the year but they are meant as practice to improve your technique and allow you to see your strengths and weaknesses. The second difference is that unlike Canadian exams were your expected to show general knowledge on all aspect of the course, in UK exams you’re expected to show mastery on a few topics from throughout the year. The best explanation is by way of example; if you study Contract Law you may cover ten (10) topics, from the ten only eight (8) will show up on the exam and from the eight questions you are only expected to answer four (4). However as mentioned you must show knowledge which goes above and beyond the lectures and readings in these four areas. The biggest impact this has had on me is the change in my studying habits. I had to spend a week going through my notes to determine which areas I would or would not study and then do additional work while studying to show knowledge above and beyond what was taught to us.
In conjunction with academics I took the opportunity to actively participate in the many extra-curricular programs that the University offers. In my first year at Queen Mary (QM) I have joined the QM Pro Bono Club and through it participated in both PopLaw and the Whitechapel Mission Placement. PopLaw is a charitable agency that teams up law students with Solicitors from some of London’s most prestigious law firms to offer free legal advice to those who cannot afford it. The Whitechapel Mission is a weekly event where law students prepare meals for the less fortunate of London.
I am also part of the QM Senior Status Society which organizes events where law students can attend lectures given by distinguished members of the UK legal community. I attended many of these lectures which included a wide range of topics from the implications of the Lisbon Treaty on the EU and the UK to the Changing Nature of the Judicial System in the UK. The two events that particularly stand out was when I was able to attend a lecture given by Lord Phillips the first, and current, President of The UK Supreme Court. After the event I was able to converse with Lord Phillips about various legal topics (photo attached). The other event I was also able to attend was a lecture by Rabinder Singh who delivered the annual LexisNexis Butterworths Lecture on Law and Society at Queen Mary. Mr. Singh is highly anticipated to be the first non-white judge who will be appointed to the UK Supreme Court (photo attached).
Since I was in Europe it was only natural that I would try out for the QM Football (aka “soccer”) club. I remember how five busloads of players showed up for tryouts which I would later discover was actually an average turnout. After three, six hour tryouts I made the team as the starting goalie and competed against Universities across England and accomplished the following: 1) we placed 1st overall in our division and were therefore relegated up a league (photo attached) 2) we became the ULU (University of London Union) Tournament champions (photo attached) 3) The QM Football team was voted club of the year, beating out the cricket, rugby and netball team as well as several university societies 5) in what I consider the two highlights of my year at Queen Mary I was voted the Captain’s Choice Player of the Year and I was given the position of Co-Captain for the team next year. My responsibilities include choosing next year’s team as well as organizing transportation, arranging games and training days.
The last topic I wish to go through are the opportunities that present themselves in the UK. First and foremost is the fact that once you receive a LLB in the UK you have the option of being called to the bar in any country that is part of the Commonwealth (i.e. Australia, Canada, Honk Kong, India etc), the European Union (Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union Article 145) or New York and Chicago.
This is but a brief review of my first year studying abroad in the UK at the Queen Mary University of London Law School. There are many events that I have not included such as the traveling, the historical sites and many other wonderful experiences. This was my experience and I accomplished by actively looking for these opportunities. However if I could pinpoint the event that set this all in motion, it was when I attended a law school fair at York University and met a man named John Kelly. From there I was introduced to Canada Law from Abroad which was instrumental in making this all happen for me. It is my sincere belief that Canada Law from Abroad can offer you so much if you decide to study abroad in the UK. Thank You Mr. Kelly.
From: Kirsten M.
Fall 2011
Academic, professional and personal experience confirmed my steadfast interest to pursue a law degree and legal career. In early June 2011 my husband accepted a job offer from his employer to relocate to London, England. After jointly deciding to move, I quickly began researching UK law schools. I had 2.5 weeks to decide where I wanted to study, put together an application package, and apply by the June 30, 2011 deadline.
Initially, this task seemed daunting. There were numerous UK universities to choose from, and the ranking of each University depended on the criteria used by the organization ranking them. I found it difficult to objectively compare which Universities were compatible with my legal area of interest, and which would provide me with a reputable, internationally recognizable, and transferable degree in both Canada and abroad.
Fortunately, during my research I came across the website of Canada Law From Abroad. After reading the valuable information John makes available, I immediately contacted him to hear more. It was beneficial to speak with John, because he had firsthand knowledge of the Universities’ legal programs and areas of focus. It was also comforting to have his assistance with the UK application process. John was readily available to answer my queries and provide advice.
After talking with John, I applied to the University of Kent, City University and the University of Sussex. I was ecstatic to be accepted by all of them. I have been admitted to the Graduate Entry LLB program at City University and will begin studying in September 2011. Consequently, I will complete my law degree in two years rather than three.
Having John’s assistance throughout the entire application process made for a seamlessly smooth and stress-free experience. I highly recommend utilizing John’s services and connections with various Universities in the United Kingdom. My decision to do so has proven invaluable to my future endeavors.
From: Nisha S.
Fall 2011
I first encountered John Kelly at an open house put on by an LSAT instructor in Toronto. I was registered to take the LSAT but wasn’t quite sure if it was the exact path I wanted to be on. I had no intention of practicing law; I wanted to obtain a Master of Laws in order to get into environmental policy. However, in the Canadian system, I was required to first go to law school and then I could apply for a Masters program. This meant that my BSc was not useful if I wanted to learn law. After hearing John talk about the UK system, I was optimistic that there could be another way to achieve my goal.
John was an incredible resource of information and guidance. After one conversation, he reassured me that it was possible for me to study law and that my degree in physics would be an asset. Not only was he confident that I would be a good applicant but he was also in constant communication with the university and myself. I do not think that I could have applied successfully without him. Moreover, he was not only concerned with my education but also with my husband’s plans. He made sure that this was something that worked for our family.
Thanks to John, I was accepted in the LLM in Environmental Law and Policy program at the University of Kent. I will be starting this September and both my husband and I are very happy!
Thank you for everything John.
From: Stepanie D.
Fall 2011
I just wanted to write to you and let you know how you have greatly impacted my life. Law school has always been a dream of mine, and it is because of Canada Law from Abroad that I am able to obtain this dream.
I first met you at one of your information sessions and was more than pleased at how the information was presented and how my options were identified. It is because of your information session that I am able to embark on my dream. These sessions is what got me excited about studying law abroad. Honestly, without you I would have not had any idea on how to apply to the U.K. Initially, the U.K. was not an option because I did not know where to start, but your guidance and your informative website assisted me along the way. Without the step-by-step application instructions or the university codes etc. available on your website I would have not been able to apply.
I have always wanted to attend law school and I have always had the intention of going to the U.K. for law school, but I did not know how to start the process. It is because of your encouragement and guidance that I am attending the University of Kent this fall. I am embarking on the GE 2 year LLB and am eager to get started. I intend to return to Canada and fulfill the NCA requirements.
Thank you so much for this opportunity. You have been a blessing throughout this process.
I truly appreciate your assistance.
From: Katy H.
Fall 2011
I have recently accepted an offer from the University of Birmingham law school and will be entering my first year this fall (2011). I couldn't be more pleased. Canada Law From Abroad has helped me with every aspect of applications.
I just wanted to thank you, John, for your expert advice and support as I went through the application process for UK law schools. You made what could seem like an intimidating and daunting process efficient and very streamlined. You helped make everything very easy and were always readily available if I or my family had questions. Everything from your website, to the presentation you and the various representatives from UK law schools made at the university I was attending for my undergrad has been so helpful to me in making the decision to attend law school in the UK. Additionally, your availability and prompt responses to my many questions made me feel secure in all throughout the application and decision-making process.
The fact that I was able to tour a few of the UK law schools and campuses and have one on one time with admissions personnel and other Canadian law students was also very helpful and gave me a great perspective on law school in the UK.
I will certainly be sharing my positive experience with Canada Law From Abroad with others interested in pursuing a law degree
Looking forward to keeping in touch with you!
From: Joan K-H. (a parent)
Summer 2011
Hello John. I wanted to drop you a short note to extend to you our thanks as a family for being so involved and supportive as our daughter went through the discovery and application process for acceptance to a UK law school. The great news was that she had a number of universities to choose from which made the whole thing a very interesting and fun process.
She is excitedly preparing to attend her first year at the University of Birmingham Law School this fall.
Without your personal touch, I don't think that we would have so seriously pursued this route as an option to her interest in studying law.
From the beginning where she attended a Canada Law From Abroad session at her undergrad university the level of professionalism and the courtesy you have extended in assisting with what really could be a daunting experience has been second to none. We very much appreciated your guidance in helping her chose the right law school for her interests.
The fact that we did tour a couple of the UK schools really helped her to narrow down her choice. We were very impressed with the strong relationships that you have with several UK law schools as it meant we could tour the universities, look at accomodation and actually sit down and talk with admissions staff!
I would highly recommend your services to anyone interested in studying law and I would like to extend an invitation to any of the contacts you have from future students and parents that if they would like to talk to a family that has had a great experience that you do not hestitate to contact me.
From: Kate D.
Fall 2010
I first met John Kelly at a Canada Law from Abroad information session last April. I went on a bit of a whim. I knew I wanted to continue with my schooling after completing my undergraduate degree, but wasn't sure what direction I wanted to go in. From the get-go John was very informative and knowledgeable, explaining the advantages that acquiring an LLB or LLM overseas would have.
I explained to John that I had somewhat of an odd situation, as my future ambition was to get a job in the music industry, but that I wasn't sure if a law degree overseas would be helpful in this venture. John reassured me about my goals, explaining exactly how I could use an LLM to my best advantage. I realised that the LLM programme is not only useful for those who want to practice law, but is also an excellent way to prepare you to better understand the legal system that underlies your chosen career path.
I will use the LLM to specialise in Intellectual Property Law, which I know will greatly aid in my understanding of how the music industry is changing and developing in this modern Internet-driven world.
Although applying for university is always a stressful process, John made sure all of my questions were answered. He replied to my emails quickly, always with a positive outlook and with honest but helpful feedback. I can't thank John enough for his assistance throughout the application process and beyond, and I highly recommend Canada Law from Abroad for anyone who is interested in obtaining a legal foundation in their chosen field.
Thank you, John!
Kate D.
From: Fiona M.
Fall 2010
Hi John,
I was pleased to learn about John Kelly and Canadian Law from Abroad while reading a law article. It had been three years since I obtained my Bachelor of Arts degree from an Alberta university and I was considering returning to school to pursue a degree in Law, a subject I had always been interested in.
The option to do my next degree outside of Canada was attractive as a mature student considering I had not had the opportunity to gain any international experience with my first degree. The UK was my first choice, and until speaking with John, I believed the process of applying to UK universities would be tedious and difficult. John offered guidance and up to date information on the universities and programs offered. With John’s help, I selected a suitable program and made my applications.
I am excited to be starting the 2 year Graduate LLB at the University of Birmingham in October 2010 and I am very appreciative of John’s assistance throughout the application process.
Thanks,
Fiona
From: Sara O.
Fall 2010
Hello John,
I just want to take time to tell you how much you and your services have helped me through applying to Law schools in the UK. I've always had a strong passion to help others, and pursue my passion through the study of law, however I never knew quite sure how I would get there.
After completing 2/3 of my undergraduate degree at York University in Criminology and Political Science, working part-time while studying revealed it's impact through my grades, while my grade were above class averages, I would not have been able to get into the Canadian law schools I wished to attend. On top of that, as a busy student caught up in extra-curricular activities, work, and leadership roles at school, there was no way I would have had time to study and do greatly on the LSAT. Choosing to study law in the UK has been the best academic decision I've ever made, saving me time and money. I could not have gained the knowledge and tips needed to pursue this course of action, had I not stumbled across your web site one day. Not only was your site informative, and professional, but you include your phone number, which you were kindly there to receive my call. Thank you.
Thank you for all your hard work, your dedication, your ability to believe in me, your encouragement, I even thank your supportive wife, who was able to answer questions at times as well. Coming into contact with you, has proven to be the greatest help and support I've received through out my academic years. Your helpful advice has gained me acceptance into my first choice University, in a 2 year graduate level LLB program. This would not be possible without you, and I want you to know how much I appreciate all your help, and your added persistence with following up with schools. For someone like me, going to law school becomes a far distance dream, but you not only made my dreams possible, you lead the way.
Thank You John G. Kelly!
Sara O.
From: Ambika C.
Fall 2010
Dear Mr. Kelly,
Below is my student feedback for your website. I awaited until today to write it because I wanted it to reflect my true emotions. Thank you for all your help. You are the reason I'm about to begin Law School today. Please let me know when you have received it.
'As I sit in my flat on the campus of the University of Kent in Canterbury, England...I take a glance outside of my window thinking that today is the first day of a new chapter in my life. Today is my first day of law school in the Graduate 2 year LLB Programme at Kent Law School. It feels quite different that after 18 years of primary, secondary, and post-secondary education, I'm finally able to pursue my dream. In 2009, a friend of mine (in a similar programme) recommended Mr. Kelly's name to me, and I became aware of the many opportunities being available in the UK to obtain a law degree. Today, my dream of going to law school has come to be because of Mr. Kelly.
John convinced me that my honours degree in Political Science would work in my favour in order to pursue a law degree in England. I would be able to complete a law degree in 2 years instead of the normal 3 years because of my education so far. He helped me throughout my entire application process, without any hesitation. John always returned or answered the series of my annoying emails or phone calls with gratitude. The help and guidance that I received while filling out my applications from him was phenomenal. It is because of him that I am attending my first day of law school today. He is truly a man who works endlessly to help Canadians pursue there dream into becoming fine lawyers. He is a selfless individual who is passionate about what he does and is dedicated to helping individuals. I am indebted to Mr. Kelly and Canada Law From Abroad forever for helping me pursue my dream.
As I leave for my first law class today, I thank you Mr. Kelly. You are an amazing human being who has undoubtedly made a difference in my life; you have given me the opportunity to pursue my dream.
With warm regards,
Ambika C.
From: Dalia S.
Winter 2010
I will be attending the University of Kent law school this September and I’m very excited. I have actually gone through the Ontario law school application process twice and I can’t stress just how intense the competition is. I thought my dreams of going to law school were lost as rejections letters were received week after week. Then I came across this website which has tons of information and most importantly John, who was there every step of the way. He answered phone calls, emails, and all of my questions and trust me…there were many.
John has guided me through which schools specialized in the type of law I wanted to practice. He even guided me with my questions on which area would be best to live in. I know that I would have never found this type of support anywhere else. John has built an organization that saves educated Canadian students years of their career life by providing the ability to gain information about other options that are available to us. He provides assistance and guidance on gaining international experience at top UK law schools that cannot be acquired anywhere else.
Look no further because Canada Law from abroad is all you need when interested in an international UK law experience. John will help you every step of the way. This is the only organization that can assist you in your quest of pursuing your dreams. This is the only organization that truly supports the choices and decisions of your future. John will help you achieve your goals.
From: Han L.
Winter 2010
As I have always wanted to practice law at a top institution, and thus going through Canada Law From Abroad was a natural choice. I was hard pressed to apply to Canadian law schools, given very restrictive entry requirements, and hence I thought that I would give applying to UK law programs a chance.
I received a heavy blow when I was unsuccessful in my application to Queen Mary University, despite having achieved a GPA higher than their entry requirements. I was distraught and very worried, but John assured me he would investigate what happened.
The next day, I received news that Queen Mary's had made a procedural error and received an unconditional offer. My UCAS account updated the day after. The dedication that Mr Kelly has shown throughout the application process has exceeded my expectations and his swift actions facilitated the acceptance into the law school that I wanted to attend the most. I am greatly indebted to Canada Law From Abroad, and I look forward to next year when I begin my studies.
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From: Leslie P.
Spring 2009
I have just been accepted into the Senior LLB programme at Queen Mary, University of London. As a mature student, this represents a thrilling and unexpected milestone. Without John Kelly's support I wouldn't be writing these words.
As a Canadian living in Vancouver, I wanted to go to law school at home, and with two degrees and years of experience as a journalist and a teacher I was confident I could get in. However, I quickly discovered how naive that view was. With few law schools, tremendous competition and acceptance based solely on numbers (LSAT and GPA) I realised there was zero hope of getting into any Canadian law school, even a small obscure one. That seemed to be that, until as if by serendipity I found Canada Law from Abroad's website. Through it I learned certain students were able to take a two-year law degree in Britain, no LSAT was required and with far more law schools per capita, the chances of acceptance in the UK were far greater.
Shortly after, I met John in Vancouver when he spoke at the Go Abroad Fair. I found him personable, genuine and most of all passionate about his desire to help hundreds of potential law students like me unable to find a place in a Canadian law school. I left inspired and full of renewed hope. John also helped me with the application process through UCAS and when it took a long time to hear back, he wrote to Queen Mary on my behalf to find out why. The process took five months and a lot of patience. But in just over six months I will be in London, England studying for a law degree and beginning the third chapter of my life. I encourage anyone thinking along similar lines, especially mature students, to set aside any fears and apply.
With John to guide you, you will be in very capable hands. Thank you John.
Leslie -
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From: Aryan S.
Spring 2009
Having gone through the law school admission process in Ontario, nothing compares to the sleepless nights that all the students have gone through preparing the applications, recommendation letters, personal statements and above all, sucking up to the undergraduate professor to make your only C+ in your transcript to a lonely B.
Moreover the LSAT took away about a year of my life and my result with a 3.6 GPA was Nile to get in any Canadian schools. It wasn't until along came a back door where I could meet my dreams, along came John Kelly, a man of great passion and gratitude toward the thousand of students who apply for Law school in Canada everyday only to come out with their dreams shattered. Mr. Kelly introduced London to me as an alternative to my goal, I was skeptical of its result at first but while I met the many graduates that has already finished their degrees and also many more just like myself, I called john and asked about the process, confident I was in good hands.
The process was very smooth and easy to get done. Aside from his help we became good friends of now I am 8 days from my dream to be in Law school. I got accepted in a 2 year accelerated program at Kent University along with 2 of my best friends, all thanks to John’s efforts and useful information in this process. Nothing more can say how grateful I am. Thank you.
Thank you John
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From: Chris K.
Spring 2009
As a parent of a child who has decided to attend a U.K. law school, John Kelly expertly guided us through a very complicated process. There are many U.K. law schools in a variety of geographic locations, with varying courses and curriculums. For any Ontario applicant it is crucial that the student choose the most appropriate school and courses so that they can not only get a law degree, but a degree that will be recognized in Ontario.John was able to cut through the many layers involved in making a school and course selection. He also humanized what is a very mechanical, computer driven process. He arranged for direct contact with law school representatives in Toronto, and worked closely with us to ensure that our son made the appropriate choice. In our case John was particularly helpful because throughout the process our son was in India! Without John's knowledgeable and timely advise and assistance the process would have been torturous.
Anyone proceeding to apply for a U.K. law school would be remiss if they didn't use John. His intimate knowledge of the schools, the people, and the courses enabled us to make choices like we were experts. A status we would have never achieved on our own, and no doubt it would have shown in the end result.
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From: Jessica C.
Spring 2009
Dear Mr. Kelly
I would like to thank you for organizing last Saturday's information session and to express my gratitude for the work that Canada Law from Abroad is doing on behalf of people like myself seeking to break the mould of the legal profession as it exists in Ontario.
I found your presentation extremely informative and thorough. I was particularly intrigued by your breakdown of the current situation law school hopefuls face in Canada, as well as the accreditation barriers for those who choose to attend law school abroad. As a result, I feel I am in a much better position to evaluate my options and to make an informed decision about my future.
It is my contention that a diversity of experiences, interests and education can only help to generate the leaders and innovators of any given field. I commend Canada law from abroad for recognizing this and paving the way for change.
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From: Danielle G.
Spring 2009
After completing my undergraduate degree and a post-graduate college program I began to work as a legal assistant for a law firm in Toronto. It was not long before I knew I was capable of doing more, yet I was unsure of where to start.
After attending one of the Canada Law From Abroad information sessions, I became aware of the many opportunities available in the UK, not only to obtain a law degree but also to work in the legal field on an international scale.
Canada Law From Abroad made what would seem to be an intimidating application process, straightforward and efficient. Before long I had various options to study law in the UK at highly reputable institutions.
Now, as a mature student I am able to continue my education at the level I have always wanted and will be starting my first year at the University of Kent in their LLB program.
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From: Zahar Z.
Spring 2009
I am a graduate student from York University with an Honours B.A. in Criminology. I have always took an interest in law and have recently decided to pursue this interest by applying to Law School. Facing extreme competition to obtain admission to Ontario Law schools, I began doing research to study in the U.K.
Through Canada Law from Abroad, I was able to find the international education bridge to U.K. Law Schools. The assistance I received from Professor John G. Kelly was very informative and practical. He was there to answer all my questions, whether it was through information seminars, email, and telephone. I encourage anyone who has ever thought about studying internationally to use the resources available to them through this site.
I admire Professor Kelly for the valuable work he is doing, especially his efforts to help and motivate students to explore the unique experiences outside the boundaries of Canada. I believe that an international education can widen our horizons and offer many more opportunities than we can imagine. I commend Canada Law from abroad for making such a contribution to our futures.
From: Vivian M.
Spring 2009
I will be attending Queen Mary, University of London (QMUL) in September 2009 in the Master of Laws program. QMUL an ideal choice because it is internationally renowned for its education standards and reputation. In addition, London is one of the world’s most diverse and exciting cities, which as a foreign student, is extremely appealing. I will be interacting with students from all over the world, from different legal and cultural backgrounds, with different work practices. Taken together, this will provide me a completely different experience compared to my studies in Toronto. However, I did not make the decision to attend QMUL or enroll in the LLM degree all by myself. It was the support of my friends and family, and John from the Canada Law Abroad program, which helped me make the final decision.
My first encounter with Canada Law Abroad was at an international fair at the Toronto Convention Centre. I had no expectations prior to the fair, only a sense of openness and intrigue towards anything that was thrown at me. Upon meeting John, I was surprised by the question he asked me: whether I wanted to practice law, or be a legal scholar. I didn’t know what the difference was at the time.
Whilst talking to John, I realized that my primary focus was on learning the law and becoming a specialist in an area of law, which is why I believe a LLM was more suitable than a LLB. Although a regular law degree would have provided a solid foundation into various aspects of law, I knew exactly what I wanted to learn and practice for my future, and which areas of law which were not of particular interest for me. Moreover, the duration for the completion of a LLM was appealing: one year, half the time it would take for me to obtain a regular law degree.
Above all, I see the LLM as a stepping stone to developing a solid academic and professional expertise in my chosen field of law. I am able to explore a legal area and attain a high level of aptitude and skill, with an opportunity for independent study. The LLM will also open up doors to career opportunities; not only will I will have access to the leading scholars and practitioners, I will be rewarded with the qualifications as an legal expert, a level of expertise that is not offered at the LLB level.
