Lead me the way to the island, please! Studying law in London

It was always clear to me: I would “do something with languages” after high school. I wanted to study a few years abroad, see the world and get to know another education system.

Written by Nicole von Göwels.

English-German Law Studies

I was overjoyed when I got the go-ahead to study “English-German Law”, a joint Bachelor’s study programme at University College London and the University of Cologne. I was immediately drawn to the programme: for two years, I would study Law in London together with English students, followed by two years in Cologne. You get to understand two totally different law systems, and at the end of your studies you receive two degrees (the English LL.B. and the German Bachelor of Laws). Also, you spend two years in one of the most fascinating cities of the world.

Thanks to the great organization of the study programme, there was no need for any concerns or excitement before taking the plane from Dortmund at the end of September. Funding was provided by the law chair in Cologne, a room was offered by UCL, as all first-years in London are guaranteed a room in a student dorm. Nevertheless, it is always a really exciting experience to live in a mega-city, not to know anybody and to be completely on your own at the beginning.

But all those thoughts and feelings were only a matter of time. As is widely known, London is a very international city and at UCL it feels like every other student is international, which makes it easier as you have common grounds. In the first weeks, you encounter so many interesting people from all over the world. I learnt that there is no harm done asking a person for their name for the third time as either you did not understand it or you forgot the name after being introduced to tons of people during the day! Especially if you live in a catered accommodation where breakfast and dinner are served at the dorm, you quickly make new friends. For those who still feel like they want to meet more people, they can sign up for one of the student societies at UCL. The societies cater to every taste – whether it is sports, Harry Potter or knitting.

After having spent one year at UCL, I am still thrilled and happy about my choice of studies. Especially the English law system is incredibly diverse and not as dull as you may think. Also, the student-teacher ratio is 1:8, something you can only dream of in the German higher education system. For every issue, be it technical or other, your personal tutor finds a solution. Besides, the popular moot courts help you prepare for real work life after your studies. If it is at all possible, I look even more forward to my second year!

I can fully recommend this study programme, and a stay abroad in London during your studies. You will never again meet so many interesting people in such a short period of time. And the buzzing and humming atmosphere in London is something very special!