Chris Browne

Chris Browne from Belfast graduated in 2010 with an LLB Law.

Why did you choose to study at Dundee University?

I felt that the University was unique in offering the opportunity to study English/Welsh/NI Law in Scotland. After researching the University and the local community I felt this was a great chance to live in Scotland, something that I had always hoped to do, while studying a degree that allowed me to return home to Northern Ireland or practice Law anywhere else in the world.

What was the best thing about your course?

The best thing about English Law at Dundee is the high quality of teaching and academic supervision. There are some really eminent lecturers and professors and it is an unique opportunity to have one of these individuals supervise your dissertation.

What information do applicants need to know before starting this course?

Compared to other courses, Law requires a great deal of self-study and the transition from school is significant. At school we were often spoon-fed information and told exactly how to pass exams. At Dundee you are encouraged to ask questions and challenge what you are taught, however in order to successfully do this you need to come prepared to classes having taken in all the reading required of you.

What has been your best learning experience to date and why?

In Level 4 I undertook a dissertation on the first Gulf War and retrospectively studied the effect this had on International Law. I was supervised by Professor Robin Churchill who has a worldwide reputation in the field. I found that Professor Churchill challenged my preconceived views on international warfare and the use of force and encouraged me to have informed views and opinions on what took place and why that is so important in the wider context today. This was a great academic experience.

What has been your best university experience to date and why?

In Level 4 I was elected as Law School President. Previously I was unaware that the University have student representatives at every turn and on every major committee. I took a chance on running in this election and never looked back. As Law School President I had the opportunity to affect decision-making in the University and make significant change to the experience of Law students. Furthermore I then decided to run for election as Deputy President of the Students' Association. I was successfully elected by the student body and had the opportunity to work full-time for a year improving the student experience at Dundee. Had I not taken the chance and gone for Law School President I may not have been where I am today.

What was your experience of settling into life in Dundee when you first arrived?

While it is of course overwhelming living away from home for the first time, I found Dundee to be a welcoming environment. I found adapting to a new community and creating a whole new life to ultimately be an exciting experience. The accomodation offered by the University is not only comfortable but also makes it easy for students to meet new friends and settle into a new environment.

Do you have any advice for potential new students?

Get involved with extra-curricular activities from an early stage. This is the best way to meet new people and ultimately add something to your CV. Graduation is four years away but it arrives quicker than you could ever expect. Keeping employability prospects at the forefront of your mind is extremely important but this is in fact also one of the most exciting experience of your life.

Remember that university is your chance to start making your own decisions and challenging preconceptions of the world around you - it is about far more than simply the academic experience.