Shaista Ali

Shaista Ali, from Dundee, graduates in 2011 with an LLB in Scots Law.

Why did you choose to study at Dundee University?

I have lived in Dundee all of my life and often heard about Dundee University being one of the most student-friendly universities in Scotland. For me, a university near my hometown, close to friends and family, was suitable and the best I could have asked for.

What are your immediate plans after graduation?

I have completed a number of postgraduate applications and hoping to hear soon. Each student is different, some may decide to enter into the legal climate straight away, however I wish to study an area which I am most passionate about- International law and Human Rights. I do intend to gain some experience in this field before commecing employment.

I do however, intend to study EU law in Prague at the European Institute for the future of lobbying in Brussels.

What are your longer term career plans (if any)?

Nothing is permanent thus I have kept my options open for the time being. I do intend to practice law in the future, particularly in the area of Public International Law. I have always been a keen and enthusiastic student and have a passion to learn about different cultures. Therefore, I intend to work abroad or gain some experience in the field. Public International Law would allow me to work and learn about the law anywhere in the world, as it is versatile.

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

Scots and English Law are areas which are important and form an important aspect of our life. Many people do not realise that in every day situations, legal matters will always be inherent in everything we do. Thus it is important for any student wishing to study law, to have an understanding of current affairs in the news and also have an understanding of what is happening in their own life, to be able to question and challenge ambiguities.

What was the most enjoyable thing about your degree and why?

During the course of my Law degree, I studied a number of prestigious modules which were both enjoyable and interesting. Law is versatile and covers all students' areas of interest, from medical negligence to human rights. I particularly enjoyed third and fourth year because the format was independent study. It was up to students to do the reading and work provided in order to follow discussions in seminars. I learnt from this process and contributed considerably. Another enjoyable experience of studying law was that all students were friendly and worked as a group.

What was your best university experience and why?

The best experience of university was being at university in itself. It was an exciting opportunity to meet new people, make friends and a time to develop personally. I found university a great experience because it gave me confidence and has built the character I represent today. I could not have asked for a better experience than one offered by the University of Dundee.

What sports activities or clubs/societies (if any) were you involved with?

I was involved in a number of societies which was both fun and challenging. I held a number of positions such as Secretary in the Dundee University Islamic Society, which tested my ability to juggle with uni, work committments and society responsibilities. I learnt a lot from being in societies such as organisation and time management.

Do you have any advice for potential new students?

I would advise any potential student seeking to gain valuable life skills and a well-recognised degree, to choose the University of Dundee. I thoroughly enjoyed being a student at the University of Dundee and would do the whole experience again.