Xhuljana's School of Law postgraduate experience

My name is Xhuljana Mucaj and I am currently pursuing an LLM in Corporate and Commercial Law at the University of Sheffield.

To anyone who is currently trying to make their mind up on where to study, I strongly advise that you include the School of Law at University of Sheffield on your list! When I was trying to decide which university to choose in the UK, I was considering several factors. Amongst these were the ranking of the university, the pedagogical staff, the course and of great importance the city I would live in. I have found in Sheffield a university that goes above my expectations in all of these areas, and I couldn’t be happier to admit that I have made the best decision for me.

As an international student, I studied in a completely different education system and I quickly discovered the things that make the University of Sheffield so great. This difference is seen across many areas, including the course content, teaching methodology, professors’ preparation and everything related to the university’s services delivered to its students. Perhaps most notable amongst the positives I have experienced at this university, would be the academic staff who have played a crucial role in guiding me throughout the course, being available to advise whenever I have anything I am unclear on in class or outside it, and persuading each of us to read and deliberate carefully during the class workshop. The professors encourage the diversity of different opinions coming together, and as we are a School with a large international community, the debates become really interesting as we get to hear views and approaches from different jurisdictions. The good vibes between the students and the professors is perhaps what I have valued the most at the University of Sheffield!

Here at the University of Sheffield there is more to be found than just seminars, lectures, reading and assignments. On a weekly basis the University sends us many opportunities for students to take part in during their leisure time. This is a really great way to make new friends and not feel the pressure of only having to study.

There are a variety of activities, including artistic and musical activities, and trips, which are organised by the students’ union, and I would highly suggest you find out more about social activities that are organised here. Finding time for a rich social life and engaging with other activities has helped me build a balance between studying and exploring what the city of Sheffield offers.

I also work as a Student Ambassador for the School of Law, an experience which has helped me understand better the importance this university gives to the voice of its students. The University of Sheffield’s Career Services also offer a lot of help and support - through them you can access a pool of job opportunities to any student who wishes to keep themselves busy whilst studying.

The final important factor to mention which has contributed to making my experience here a great one, is the city of Sheffield itself, located in the heart of the UK. Although Sheffield is a large city, it feels very safe to me. The first day I came to Sheffield I had the feeling of being at home right away. Wherever you choose to live in the city and whatever you want to do, there’s something for everyone to explore. If you’re a fan of culture, you’ll find theatres, cinemas and art galleries which often offer discounted tickets for students, and many of the galleries and museums are free to enter!

If I were to rate my overall experience at the University of Sheffield out of 10, I would definitely give it a 10!

I don’t know where my life will take me professionally just yet after my LLM, but one thing I am sure of is that studying at the University of Sheffield has helped widen my horizons.