Aviral Saxena

Why did you choose the University of Westminster?

The University of Westminster stood out to me as a student-friendly institution with a strong reputation in legal education. Its central London location provides unparalleled access to legal professionals, law firms, and networking opportunities - essential for any aspiring lawyer.

How has your experience been studying in London?

Beyond academics, London’s fast-paced and multicultural environment has broadened my perspective. I’ve had the opportunity to attend legal conferences, visit courts, and engage with people from diverse backgrounds. These experiences have strengthened my communication and adaptability skills, which are crucial in the legal profession.

What have you particularly enjoyed about your course?

Studying Law at the University of Westminster has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve particularly enjoyed how the course balances theoretical knowledge with practical application. Modules such as Criminal Law and Property Law have deepened my understanding of key legal principles, while courses like Rethinking Criminal Justice have encouraged me to critically analyse the legal system and explore its real-world impact.

How have you found academic support as part of your studies?

The academic support at Westminster has been outstanding. The faculty members are not only knowledgeable and experienced but also approachable and supportive. Whenever I needed clarification on legal concepts, my lecturers - such as Ms. Seema Kandelia and Ms. Iris Anastasiadou were incredibly helpful, providing detailed guidance and constructive feedback on my work.

Additionally, serving as a module representative for Rethinking Criminal Justice has allowed me to work closely with faculty members, voice student feedback, and see first-hand how committed they are to improving the student experience.

Are there any stand-out facilities associated with your course?

Yes! Several facilities have significantly enhanced my learning experience at Westminster. The Legal Advice Clinic has been a fantastic resource, allowing students to gain hands-on legal experience by working alongside professionals and providing real legal guidance to clients.

The law library is another standout feature, offering a vast collection of legal texts, journals, and case law databases such as Westlaw and LexisNexis, which have been invaluable for my research and studies.

Tell us about your experience using the University Careers and Employability Service

I’ve used the University Careers and Employability Service, and it has played a key role in shaping my career path. The CV-building workshops, interview preparation sessions, and networking events have helped me refine my professional skills and prepare for future opportunities.

As a Student Partner and Student Advisor at the Legal Advice Clinic, I’ve gained practical experience while receiving mentorship on career progression. The Careers Team has also supported me with LinkedIn profile development and job applications, giving me a strategic advantage as I navigate the legal profession.

Tell us about any activities you have undertaken outside of your course

Outside of my coursework, I’ve actively participated in various extracurricular activities that have enriched my academic and personal experience at Westminster:

Law-Related Activities:

Student Advisor – Legal Advice Clinic: Gained hands-on legal experience by assisting clients with real cases, strengthening my analytical and client interaction skills.

Student Partner Role: Worked closely with faculty to organise events and contribute to university initiatives aimed at student engagement.

Module Representative for Rethinking Criminal Justice: Represented my peers, providing feedback to enhance course structure and support.

Experience Day Student Panel: Spoke to prospective law students about my journey at Westminster.

Law Research & Writing: Currently working on publishing a paper on surrogacy laws, comparing legal frameworks in India and the UK.

Other Activities:

Gym Classes at Regent Street Campus: I attend fitness classes every Thursday, which has been a great way to stay active and maintain a balanced lifestyle.

Festivals & Social Events: I’ve attended several university-wide events across different campuses, such as Halloween and Diwali celebrations, which have allowed me to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and experience different cultures.

What would your advice be to someone considering studying at Westminster?

I would encourage prospective students to make the most of every opportunity available - whether that’s engaging with academic resources, networking events, or extracurricular activities. Westminster offers a strong support system, from approachable lecturers to a careers service that helps you develop professionally.

I’d also recommend getting involved beyond your coursework. The Legal Advice Clinic, Student Union events, and networking panels have given me invaluable experiences that extend beyond the classroom. Plus, studying in central London means you can easily attend legal events and connect with professionals, giving you a head start in your career.

What’s the best aspect of being a University of Westminster student?

Westminster doesn’t just focus on theory - it ensures students gain practical skills through pro bono work, networking opportunities, and career-building workshops. The university also fosters a diverse and inclusive environment, allowing students to connect with people from different cultures and backgrounds.

Another major advantage is studying in London - a global hub for legal, business, and creative opportunities. The city itself serves as an extension of the classroom, providing countless ways to grow academically and professionally.

What was the most surprising or unexpected aspect of your Westminster experience?

One of the most surprising aspects of my experience has been how approachable and supportive the lecturers are. I expected university to be very independent, but I was pleasantly surprised by how accessible and willing to help the professors are. Their open-door policy and genuine interest in student success have made a huge difference in my learning experience.

Final Thoughts

Westminster isn’t just about academics - it’s about finding your passion, making meaningful connections, and developing the skills needed for success. I’m incredibly grateful for my journey here so far, and I look forward to seeing where it takes me next.