Meet Naitra

How did you decide on your subject of study?

I developed a passion for criminal and human rights law at a young age, driven by my goal of releasing the wrongfully convicted and providing a voice for the voiceless.

I've always known I wanted a career that would give me a platform to make a difference. This led me to immerse myself in the legal field and engage with legal professionals to understand justice systems better globally and locally.

What's your favourite module and why?

My favourite module so far is Criminal Law. This module focuses on building foundational skills like assessing cases, constructing legal arguments, and outlining fundamental aspects of legal writing.

The professors dedicate their time to ensuring we have a well-rounded understanding of key concepts such as mens rea, actus reus, and various offences, allowing us to feel well-prepared for future assessments and the years ahead.

What's the most underrated spot in Birmingham?

The canal route connecting Selly Oak and the city. It’s a convenient way to exercise and get a break from studying, with easy access to grocery stores and to places to spend a night out.

What's one piece of advice you can share for incoming students?

Do not be afraid to put yourself out there!

Take advantage of all the academic support, whether it be one-on-one with professors or in workshops that are held throughout the year.

And socially, be open to meeting new people. As someone coming from a different country, it took a few weeks to settle in, but once I started meeting new people and exploring things to do both on and off campus, it really helped to ease the homesickness!

Anything you'd like to add?

To give some advice on the scholarship process, writing for a competitive award gave me a chance to reflect on and express the various academic, professional, and social initiatives I've engaged in.

I aimed to showcase my commitment to legal studies and highlighted how I have applied my passion for law through hands-on projects and leadership roles.

A tip when writing for the scholarship is to focus on how you will use your skills during your time at the university, like societies and your studies for example.

Share your experiences and show how you'll get involved both academically and socially!