Monique Foote

What motivated you to pursue postgraduate study?

I was always passionate about pursuing a law career because I wanted to wear nice pantsuits - seriously! My love and desire to pursue law as a career were further solidified after I completed my degree in Paralegal Studies and worked as a legal assistant for a few years. My role as a legal assistant was mentally stimulating and I was exposed to a variety of cases and topics. I witnessed firsthand how valuable and impactful my work was to our clients. Not only would I be able to wear lovely pantsuits to work but I would be able to advocate for members of my community.

What were you doing before applying for a postgraduate degree?

Before enrolling in the GE LLB program, I worked as a legal assistant and legal researcher for small boutique law firms.

Were there any challenges affecting your decision to study a postgraduate degree? If so, how did you overcome them?

Like most students, starting any sort of educational program during 2020 was made difficult by COVID-19. I felt as though I was robbed of the in-person interactive and social aspect of being in a school. Additionally, it became challenging to keep up with the learning materials as each day felt like they were blending into one. I was able to overcome this by creating a separate study/work area in my room and making a detailed schedule for each week. This schedule covered all my courses, extra reading materials as well as any school-related emails that I had to send/respond to. This made each day easier to follow and organized.

Why did you choose City?

I decided to study at City because of the excellent feedback I received from an Alumni. After conducting my own research and reading additional student testimonial I decided that City was the best fit for me. As I nearing the end of my studies, I can confidently say I made the right choice.

How are you finding studying in the UK?

My experience as an international student in London has been equally amazing and challenging - once I got over the jet lag and navigating the tube. City, University of London has a large number of international students, and everyone is very welcoming and friendly. I was lucky enough to be with a lot of other Canadian students on the GE LLB and that made assimilating into the London culture easier Exploring London has been fun as my fellow Canadian classmates are just as eager to learn and see more of the City as I am.

What has been your favourite module or aspect of your course so far?

Constitutional Law and Administrative Law - it was interesting to learn how the law has changed and developed to keep up with the changes and demands of society. Learning constitutional law is like seeing the blueprints of how society and the principles of justice came to be.

What knowledge and skills has your course helped you develop?

Communication skills, critical thinking and analytical skills - all developed through writing formatives and meeting with professors during feedback hours.

What opportunities and experiences has City offered you so far?

I am sent daily emails and reminders from the City Law School regarding employment opportunities, seminars, and mooting. The emails are generally detailed and it's easy to apply and get involved with activities.

What are your career plans and how has City prepared you for them?

In terms of career plans, I have not made any definitive plans. I am interested in Human Rights advocacy and Criminal law. At City, Criminal law was a core class and I took Human Rights Law as an elective. Not only were both professors very knowledgeable in their respective areas, they also shared their personal experiences with dealing with clients and cases. This method of teaching and interaction with these professors helped me to understand what it would mean to practice law in these areas.

What advice would you give to someone considering a postgraduate degree?

During the trails of law schools there will be moments of doubts and you will need an underlying passion to see you through those times.