Gabriella Matthews is currently studying LLB Law with Business at our Birmingham campus. Here, she shares her experience of being an international student, the University support she’s received and the roles that are helping her grow, both personally and professionally.
By April Baniqued. Published 17 November 2025.
My ambition is to qualify as a solicitor for financial stability, with the long-term goal of becoming a barrister. What inspired me was my competitive nature and passion for advocacy. I want to be a strong voice for those who can’t always speak for themselves.
I knew I wanted to go to university when I realised how passionate I was about justice and business. I wanted the right foundation to build a career in both. I chose The University of Law because of its strong employability focus and flexibility. Knowing that many of our teachers have real field experience also reassured me I would gain practical insight and have the chance to ask in-depth questions.
Although I’m not on a student visa, I’m considered an international student as I’ve been in the UK for less than three years. My experience has been unique because I’ve gone through the same processes as international students. So far, it has been amazing. My motivation for studying in the UK was the hope of building a better future.
I’ve found the community to be very welcoming and inclusive. Being surrounded by people from such diverse backgrounds has given me a real sense of belonging and support, both academically and socially. This has made my student experience even more positive.
When it comes to obstacles, balancing financial struggles with my workload has been a challenge. During trying times, my drive, faith and support systems keep me going. I’ve learnt to lean on discipline, organisation and determination when things feel overwhelming.
I'd like to mention my lecturer Andria Richards who has been incredibly supportive. I was going through financial difficulties and on one occasion I couldn’t focus in class. She asked if I was okay, which gave me the space to open up for the first time. She was incredibly caring and patient, letting me talk through it all and helping me calm down. She also gave me practical guidance on next steps and later provided a reference for a CPS work experience opportunity. Her support has made a huge difference.
I have also used other support services; the Wellbeing team is approachable and encouraging, which is reassuring when managing the pressures of studying alongside other commitments. The Employability Service is how I found out about the Student Ambassador role, as well as other opportunities and events I could get involved in. For example, I was able to attend court visits with the University, which gave me great real-world insights into legal practice. The service has helped me build experience outside of my studies and discover different opportunities available to develop my skills and career. They even helped me prepare for applications and interviews, while the Pro Bono team has shown me the importance of practical experience.
In my role as a Student Ambassador, I represent the University at Open Days, school visits and online events. I speak to prospective students about my own journey, answer questions about studying law and share honest insights about student life. I’ve found it really rewarding to know that my experiences can help someone else feel more confident in making their own choices about higher education. It has also improved my public speaking, adaptability and ability to connect with different kinds of people - skills that are valuable for my future legal career.
I recently started my role as a Diversity and Inclusion Ambassador (DIA). So far, I’ve mainly been involved in providing feedback through surveys and contributing my perspective as a student. I’m looking forward to getting more involved in projects and initiatives over time. I see it as a valuable opportunity to promote inclusivity and make a positive impact within the University community.
I am also volunteering with Victim Support and The Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD). Volunteering has boosted my confidence, given me valuable experience and strengthened my sense of purpose - all of which are shaping me into the lawyer I aspire to be.
Balancing these roles alongside my studies has pushed me to become more organised and disciplined. They have also given me the chance to step outside of my course work, engage with the wider student community and develop transferrable skills that I know will serve me well in my future career.
My advice to students is to not let challenges push you off course. Law is demanding, but resilience and consistency make the difference. Take every opportunity - from volunteering to pro bono work - because those experiences shape not just your CV, but your confidence too.
I’ve been reading about the Threshold Test in the Code for Crown Prosecutors. It really opened my eyes to how decisions in criminal justice balance public interest, evidence and fairness. It’s changed how I think about accountability and responsibility in law.
In five years', I see myself as a qualified solicitor, building a career that’s financially stable while also preparing for a future transition to the Bar. I also hope to keep volunteering and using my skills to give back to communities in need.
Visit our LiveProspectus to find out what student life is like or learn more about our LLB Law with Business course.
