After graduating from Brunel University with a degree in sociology, Amina Ballam joined the College of Law's PgDL course. Amina Ballam chose the College of Law because of its strong links with law firms. She had already decided that she wanted to do her LPC at the College and it made sense to do the PgDL there as well. The London branch was convenient as it meant she was able to live at home and keep costs down and she liked the fact that Store Street is a lively, busy branch. Amina also points out that there were good support facilities such as the library and IT. 'The PgDL was enjoyable but it is a challenging course and the final week of exams was very tough,' says Amina. 'However, by the time I started the LPC, I had got used to the heavy workload and found the course easier than the PgDL. The LPC is very practical and, of course, related to working life. 'Even now I still bring my notes and folders into the office to help with form filling etc and generally to refer to. Doing legal research and form filling on the course is pretty dull but it is really useful in practice.' And of course, there is always something to do outside College hours. 'You can choose from a wide variety of student societies and clubs to join whilst you're at College, it's up to you how much you want to get involved.' Amina is currently undertaking her training contract with Kidd Rapinet, a commercial firm dealing with some private client matters, having first had some work experience with them in the summer. She still maintains links with the College and has helped out at several College events. Her future plans also include the possibility of lecturing at the College. Her advice to someone considering a career in law is to be persistent. 'If it's what you want to do then keep going as it will be worth it in the end.' When Amina first applied to Kidd Rapinet for a training contract she heard nothing until, on the advice of one of her tutors, she wrote them a second letter. When she attended her interview it was the second letter she had written that was on the interviewer's desk. | 
