Osiyemi Osipitan

Why did you come to Kent?

I am from Nigeria and studied on a foundation programme there, which guaranteed a place at certain universities and I chose Kent. I was attracted by Kent’s reputation as a ‘critical law school’ because I knew that meant I would study the law in a wider social and economic context.

Did you visit Kent before you came to study?

No, but when I arrived everyone was very supportive; there were welcome helpers who helped me with my bags, which was very nice! Lots of events were arranged so it was very easy to meet new people and what had seemed a daunting prospect actually turned out fine. I think the University supports its international students very well, offering lots of help and advice. There are a lot of Nigerian students on campus, which is lovely for me.

How is the course going?

Very well. I enjoy the seminars; Kent Law School is quite diverse with students from all over the world so you get to hear how the law works in different countries, which can be enlightening. Seminar groups are quite small – but lively.

Do you have a favourite module?

In the first and second years most of the modules are compulsory but in your final year you choose modules based on your own interests. I chose Labour Law and Employment Law and have really enjoyed those.

Do you want to work in this area?

At the moment, I am thinking about going in to corporate or maritime law because that is where my interests lie and they are the most lucrative. Maritime law is quite a specialist area with only a handful of firms working in that branch of the law but it offers great opportunities. I am taking a module on company law, which is very good preparation if I decide to move into corporate law.

What about the lecturers?

The academics at Kent are brilliant and have written many of the text books used by undergraduates everywhere, which is impressive. They are also very enthusiastic and in lectures they use videos and find other ways to keep us interested and engaged.

What about the facilities on campus?

The academic facilities are good; the new library extension is very impressive.

I play tennis and am quite sporty so really appreciate the investment the University has made in its sports facilities. There are a lot of restaurants on campus all offering different types of food. In my first year I lived in Park Wood, which is like a student village on campus. I enjoyed being a part of that community and made a lot of friends there.

I am a member of the Nigerian Law Society and Kent Law Society. I also sing in the choir and I volunteer for a homeless outreach programme in Canterbury.

I also volunteer for Kent Law Clinic where I work one day a week in an administrative role and attend advice sessions where I take notes at client meetings for the Clinic’s records.

Have you used our careers service?

Last year I was applying for summer schemes and the careers service gave me good advice on my applications – it worked because I managed to get a place.

What are your future plans?

I am going back to Nigeria after graduation and hope to be called to the Bar there. After that, I will return to the UK to study for a Master’s.

What advice would you give to someone coming to Kent?

A law degree can feel daunting at times so you need to be enthusiastic about your studies. Be open-minded and inquisitive and don’t just accept something because it is ‘received wisdom’, be curious and look beneath the surface.

Kent offers an inclusive environment and there are lots of opportunities and support available but the onus is on you to take advantage of what is on offer. Canterbury is a great city, very student-friendly. Overall, I have enjoyed my time here; I made the right choice in coming to Kent.