“My experience showed me that changing universities doesn’t have to be a complicated process, and transferring to Chichester was one of the best decisions I made during my degree.”
Matilda Birtall, Legal Assistant at law firm MacDonald Oates LLP, transferred to Chichester in her final year of University, studying LLB (Hons) Law.
Can you explain why you decided to transfer to Chichester? Was it an easy process and are you glad you made the move?
I was completing my degree during the pandemic and had moved back home during the lockdowns. When I began my third and final year of my degree, I had spent a significant amount of time studying online from home. With the uncertainty around further lockdowns and restrictions, it made sense to me to stay closer to home.
I decided to look at local universities to see whether they would allow me to transfer. It wasn’t something I had heard of other people doing, so I wasn’t sure whether it would be possible. However, the process was very straightforward. I simply contacted the admissions team at Chichester by email and provided my transcripts from my previous university. Within a month, the arrangements had been made for me to start at Chichester.
Amy Elkington, Head of Law, also emailed me to introduce herself and explain the modules I would be taking and the structure of the course, which made the transition feel very welcoming and reassuring.
What is it about Law at Chichester that appealed to you for your final year? Is there anything you preferred to your previous university?
As I mentioned, I lived locally, but I always thought I wanted to move further away from home. In hindsight, I wish I had started my course at Chichester from the beginning!
I much preferred the teaching and learning experience I received at Chichester. At my previous university, I would attend lectures with perhaps 200 students, whereas at Chichester the classes were much smaller. This made the learning experience feel much more personal and supportive.
How did your time at Chichester help you get to where you are now?
I left Chichester with a qualifying law degree, which has helped me to secure roles within the legal profession. I am now working as a Legal Assistant at a local law firm, where I am gaining valuable practical experience alongside continuing my studies.
I am currently studying the Legal Practice Course (LPC) alongside a Master’s degree, which I was able to enrol on because of my law degree. I am due to complete my studies in October, after which I will begin my training contract with the firm I currently work for. I hope to qualify as a solicitor in 2028.
What would you say to someone who was thinking about transferring to Chichester?
Go for it! I wish I had done it sooner. I was initially hesitant because I didn’t think transferring was possible, but it is definitely worth asking and finding out what your options are.
My experience showed me that changing universities doesn’t have to be a complicated process, and transferring to Chichester was one of the best decisions I made during my degree.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
I had such an enjoyable experience at Chichester. My lecturers were incredibly supportive, and I still have a great relationship with them nearly four years after graduating!
Alongside other alumni, I also come back to the University to attend careers fairs and other events. I think it says a lot about the lovely team who run the course that so many former students continue to return to the University and stay involved. I am really grateful for the support I received during my time at Chichester.