In our recent blog post Celebrating Success – Brigid Cotter Prize and Graduate Entry Awards we recognised the outstanding success of our students in winning one of two prizes awarded by Undergraduate Laws at the University of London.
In this post, three of our winners of the Brigid Cotter Prize 2023-24 share their advice on:
- The study habits, strategies, or approaches that contributed most to their success.
- Any particular challenges they faced during their studies, and how they overcame them.
- What advice they would you give to other students preparing for future examinations.
Dylan Goh-Lee
1. Time management and discipline were the most important factors that contributed to my success. I would always set aside time to study each of the subjects, and I had to be disciplined in following my schedule. One study habit I developed was active recall. This is where I would test myself on material I had read by trying to remember it outside of study sessions. For example, during lunch I might ask myself what the facts of a case were, or what were the judge’s reasoning or decision had been. This helped me practise remembering without constantly referring to my notes. I also used flashcards for material I found difficult to remember, as these support active recall and spaced repetition.
2. I think the main challenge was keeping myself motivated and disciplined. There were times when I did not feel like studying and felt demotivated, but I followed my schedule regardless because I wanted to do my best. Sticking to my timetable was not easy because there were 1000 other things I would rather have done, such as playing video games or binge-watching Dexter on Netflix. Although I set aside time for rest and hobbies, I had to ensure I studied consistently and kept myself on track.
Another difficulty was fatigue as over the long run, consistent study is demanding, and mental fatigue can build up. During these periods, I sometimes treated myself to my favourite ice cream as a small reward or going out with my friends. It was all about negotiating with myself, I told myself that after going out with my friends I would study harder through the week, that way I was not so lifeless studying every single day. Ultimately, I realised that it is important to stay focused, set clear goals, and find meaning in my work. Once I understood the ‘why’, it became easier to see the purpose behind my efforts and it became easier to overcome fatigue and maintain discipline as I felt that I was working towards a mission.
3. My advice to other students would be to finish what you started. You have probably gone to classes, done your readings, and worked tirelessly so carry it through to the end. Remember that it is a marathon and not a sprint. Study consistently and keep pushing until the day of your exam. Do not give up. The most crucial time is the two weeks before the examinations; try your hardest, study to the best of your abilities, and persevere until the end.
Kai L Foo
1. Several habits and strategies contributed to my success. Firstly, I often attempted questions from past year papers and read the examiner reports found in the VLE to understand the content of a good answer. Secondly, I revised early to ensure I had a good understanding of each chapter approximately a month before the start of exams. Thirdly, I consulted my lecturers and tutors from my recognised teaching centre whenever I had doubts or questions regarding the subject matter.
2. I would say I found the content of the subjects to be very bulky and daunting. To overcome this, I made a study plan/checklist that detailed every topic that must be covered before the start of exams. I also struggled with writing essays and would be in doubt as to whether the content of my essays would satisfy the criteria for a good answer as the examination reports provided in the VLE were sometimes vague. Fortunately, I had the opportunity to consult the lecturers and tutors in my recognised teaching centre for feedback and questions regarding the subject matter to overcome this issue. They were rather helpful in providing me feedback for my essay scripts and their guidance was pivotal to my success.
3. Make full use of the VLE and remember to revise early. Never underestimate the subject matter. If you are attending a recognised teaching centre, consult your lecturers and tutors if you have any questions or doubts regarding the syllabus. Remember to obtain feedback from your tutors regarding your essay scripts so you have a rough idea on how to approach a particular question in the exam.
Syed M Bin Abdul Rahim Alsree
1. As a mature student and working professional, I approached law practically by focusing on understanding and application instead of memorising.
2. Balancing work responsibilities with studies was really difficult. I am grateful to my colleagues and my family. The little notes of encouragement gave me motivation to push ahead.
3. I would strongly recommend being very sure about how to answer the questions. It is better to be concise and clear, instead of being lengthy and without focus. Most importantly, enjoy the journey of learning and applying the law.