Julie Samouelle is a senior law lecturer at our London Bloomsbury campus. We spoke to Julie to learn more about her journey into teaching, what she enjoys the most about lecturing and all the places she draws inspiration from.
Written by April Baniqued. Published 27 October 2025.
What sparked your decision to go into teaching?
When my children were young, I was very involved in their education. I volunteered as a school Governor at both their primary and secondary school for over 15 years. This gave me valuable insight into state education, including Ofsted, funding issues and teaching practices. When an opportunity came for me to undertake a PGCE in my late 40s, I jumped at the chance, completing my teacher training at schools in Dorset. I subsequently worked as a secondary school teacher in Surrey.
Talk us through your career journey and how you became part of The University of Law.
Prior to joining the University, I undertook several roles. I qualified as a solicitor in my 20's and spent a few years in practice, mainly in criminal and family law. I married in my late 20's and had two children, prompting me to quit work, move into a motorhome and disappear off to Europe for a year or so with my family. Later, I worked with the National Probation Service for over a decade, supporting female offenders and victims of domestic abuse.
I then found myself working at the University, thanks to my daughter. She was a student on the Accelerated LLB when she mentioned that the University was looking for lecturers. I wasn’t confident that I could teach at HE level but she encouraged me to apply and now I love it.
What is an achievement you are proud of?
Work-wise, returning to university in my late 40's and starting a new career as a teacher. I wasn’t sure I would cope with studying aged 48 so I am proud that I succeeded.
In my personal life, I was the first in my family to attend university. The support of my parents when I decided to attend has had a lasting impact on me. Also, of course, that I raised two children whom I am very proud of and who are successful in their respective fields.
What can students look forward to when they walk into your classroom?
When you step into my classroom, expect lots of energy, probably a Kahoot quiz and a friendly, approachable lecturer who is excited to be standing in front of you. I would describe my teaching style as bubbly and enthusiastic. My students take away my Northern vibe and extensive out-of-date cultural references.
What keeps you passionate about your role?
I predominantly teach our foundation year students and they genuinely inspire me. So many of them have faced considerable barriers to their learning. One student told me how one of her A-level teachers left at the end of year 12 and the college did not replace her. My SQE students who turn up to study at 6pm on a Thursday, or on a Sunday after a full day or week of work are admirable.
The interaction with the students truly excites me. Having the opportunity to support students through their own educational and personal journeys makes this the best job in the world.
Also, I very much enjoy having the support of my colleagues at Bloomsbury - you know who you are. They (aside from the students) keep me turning up every day.
What advice would you like to give to students?
My advice to students is to get involved with all the extracurricular activities; the University is so much more than academics.
Interested in studying the course Julie teaches? Find out more about our LLB law degree with foundation year.
