Breanne Bobyn

How has the scholarship helped you in your time at university (or your journey to university)?

Receiving this scholarship has made an incredible difference in both my journey to university and in my time here. It has eased the financial pressures of studying abroad with the international student costs, allowing me to fully focus on my studies and make the most of my time here. This scholarship has also given me sense of encouragement and belonging, knowing my hard work in my undergraduate degree and past work experience has been recognized. I have been motivated to stay ambitious, and get involved in the university community, while continuing to reach my goals of becoming a lawyer. 

Why did you want to study Law - what stood out?

I chose to study law at the University of Birmingham because I have always been passionate about a legal career. The LLB for Graduates program stood out to me as a Canadian for its shorter course length being only two years compared to the traditional 3 years back home, but also how the course offers both theoretical and practical understanding of the law.

I was drawn to modules such as Legal Skills and Methods that help build the foundation of a legal education, and the Birmingham Law Schools emphasis on involvement in career experience such as mooting and research skills. The programs reputation and the opportunities it provides to engage students with the legal community made it the perfect place to reach my goal of becoming a lawyer. 

What are your favourite places to visit in the Midlands?

I have loved exploring the city centre, with the Bullring offering shops, events, markets and more. The canals throughout the city bring such a unique vibe I would not have back home. Areas like Harborne and Edgbaston offer amazing cafes, gardens, and restaurants that really demonstrate the cities historic charm. There is a fantastic balance between city life and peaceful escapes, which makes living in the Midlands really quite special. 

Has anything surprised you about living the UK?

One of the main differences I have noticed living here is how much history is built into daily life. In Canada, everything is so spread out, even from city to city. I have loved that in Birmingham, and the UK as a whole, I can easily access new areas and explore so much all in a short walk, bus, or train ride. I have also been surprised by how friendly and welcoming people have been, making the transition of living abroad that much more special. 

Is there anything you’ve found challenging about living in the UK and if so, how have you overcome this?

The biggest challenge has been being far from family and friends back home, knowing it is now a 7 hour flight compared to back home a 10 minute drive to a friends house has been tricky to adjust to. To overcome this adjustment I have found an amazing group of friends, some local to the UK, and even some from Canada as well, and getting involved in student life both on and off campus.

The University's support is unlike any other school I have seen, offering services and events specific for international students to meet peers in the same position as me who may be missing home, and building personal and academic relationships to feel more settled here. 

How do you think your degree and studying abroad will support your future plans?

Studying law in the UK will grant me the highly desired global perspective so many employers look for back home. Being able to strengthen my ability to think critically about how the law shapes our society is such a strong asset to have, being even further developed by real world experience in travel.

Studying abroad has helped me grow personally as well, learning to adapt to a new environment and gain perspective on different cultural norms. This degree will be both academically and personally invaluable as I work toward a legal career that can bridge the international understanding of legal advocacy back home.

What have become some of your new favourite things after living in the UK? 

I have developed a true love, and reliance, on afternoon tea, and I have truly enjoyed the local markets such as the Frankfurt Christmas Market and daily farmers market in city centre. I am loving how social life revolves around cafes and pubs, with Wednesdays being a cherished sports day - it's such a fun and interactive way to enjoy the culture and atmosphere of sports in the UK. I am looking forward to exploring local musicians and bands, with such a wide range of artists coming to the city.