Meet Isobel Morris, an online MA Law (Conversion) student. Read on to find out why she chose to convert to law, how she balances her part-time studies with full-time work and what her plans for the future look like.
By Abs Wilson. Published 13 October 2026.
What inspired you to study a postgraduate law degree?
I studied Criminology and Sociology for my undergraduate degree. Along the way, I decided that I wanted to make a difference working in the criminal justice system as a barrister.
How have your ambitions changed since you started University?
When I initially started my undergraduate course, I wanted to join the Police as a detective constable. Once I began volunteering in court and watching barristers on their feet, I decided I also wanted to be standing up in court advocating for others. I started researching the profession, gained experience and am now on my journey to a career at the Bar.
Why study at The University of Law?
I decided to study with ULaw because they have a flexible study option. With part-time online enrolment, I was able to plan my studies around other commitments. This was an important factor for me as I decided to work full-time alongside a part-time course.
This flexibility has also had the biggest impact on my experience. I was anxious before starting my course as I wanted to ensure I could maintain a work-life balance within this new challenge. I've been able to plan my study hours in a way that works for my specific schedule, allowing time to be present at work and some important time to unwind with friends and family. Without this flexibility, I don’t know how I would be able to manage the busy schedule.
What are some of your recent accomplishments and what do they mean to you?
I recently won the Volunteering Excellence Award at The University of Law Students' Union Awards. It was a really nice surprise, and it felt good for my volunteering efforts to be recognised. This award meant a lot to me and my career as it highlighted how much of my own time I've spent volunteering to support individuals in the criminal justice system, as well as demonstrating my commitment to working within this field.
I've also fundraised for YoungMinds and PSPA, organisations that are close to my heart. I was able to raise over £2500 running the London Marathon for PSPA, which has been one of my greatest achievements and a day I will never forget.
How did you find legal volunteering roles?
I self-sourced my volunteering roles by researching charities online and through applying via opportunities provided at work.
At East Surrey Domestic Abuse Services (ESDAS), I spent time working with individuals who were navigating the criminal/family legal system as survivors of Domestic Abuse, focusing on court support and advocacy. I also volunteered with the Witness Service in a London magistrates' court for a year. I thoroughly enjoyed attending court, speaking with victims and witnesses, but also building a strong rapport with prosecutors and judges.
The busy atmosphere of the court became a place where I felt at home and comfortable, and sparked my interest in working at the Criminal bar. It has been a privilege supporting the victims and witnesses I have spent time with over the years, and I feel a sense of pride that they were able to entrust me to support them during some of the most difficult times in their lives.
What motivates you to continue giving your time and energy to supporting vulnerable people, both professionally and through volunteering?
The criminal justice system is a difficult area of work, particularly with the ongoing challenges we continue to face. I do, however, get immense satisfaction and enjoyment from working with the public and offering a non-judgemental listening ear when they are experiencing a particularly difficult time. I have volunteered for many organisations over the years. I believe it is an essential practice to build resilience, confidence and perspective.
It is also fantastic experience to have on your CV, as it demonstrates that you are willing to give your own time to something bigger with no payment expected in return.
How has The University of Law helped you develop the skills needed to support others?
Studying at The University of Law has strengthened my communication, professionalism and confidence, enabling me to support vulnerable individuals with empathy. It has also enhanced my understanding of legal processes, helping me provide reassurance and clear guidance in both my ESDAS and Witness Service volunteering roles.
How do you maintain work/life balance as a student?
I have always been one to plan my daily routine meticulously, but it has been more important than ever to stick to a schedule now that I am studying alongside my work. I occasionally do have to sacrifice long weekend hours and early mornings to squeeze in extra study time, but I make sure to really embrace time off studying, particularly the long summer break.
I also enjoy using the Pomodoro study method. You study for 25 minutes and take five minutes rest in cycles. I find this keeps my mind active and engaged without having to commit to extended periods of reading and studying.
What one piece of advice would you want someone reading your story to take away?
A university degree is not enough – make sure when you graduate that you have other experience, such as volunteering, on your CV. This makes a real difference with employers. I believe that if I didn’t have my volunteering experience, I wouldn't have been given the employment opportunities that I've been fortunate to have.
When you picture your future, what do you see?
I have a year left of studying until I finish my law conversion course – I will probably then take a bit of time off studying to decompress after a chaotic two years. I will then move onto the Bar Practice Course and hopefully secure pupillage in a criminal set in London and the South-East circuit. I have a long journey ahead of me to becoming a practising barrister, but I am looking forward to every step along the way.
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