"It's a full-circle moment": gaining an LLB and finding my voice
When we first met Vidhya Prabhakaran in Kuala Lumpur in early 2024, she was a final-year student on the University of London’s Bachelor of Laws (LLB) programme.
Studying at Brickfields Asia College (BAC), one of the University’s Recognised Teaching Centres in Malaysia, she was already making an impression – not only through her academic dedication, but also through her leadership in student-led organisations.
At the time, Vidhya was taking part in the University of London's international brand campaign, which profiled students in Malaysia, Bangladesh and Pakistan. "I aim to become a solicitor or a barrister," she told us in that first interview, "but I’m also interested in other careers like journalism. Earning a law degree gives me so many transferable skills."
She spoke about how the flexibility of the programme had been essential to her success. "Doing the programme with an RTC means I can be closer to home and take advantage of both online and on-campus learning," she explained. "It helps me stay on track and still benefit from our global law faculty."
Though she wasn't working alongside her studies, Vidhya kept herself plenty busy, holding voluntary positions at organisations like the Asian Law Students Association of Malaysia and MRA Siswa, a student-led wing of the Malaysian Relief Agency.
Living in student accommodation helped her build close connections, and her role as class representative over three years helped her feel part of a wider student community. "I definitely felt connected – from orientation week to spontaneous friendships in our accommodation."
She also shared her long-term ambitions: "I want to become a well-recognised lawyer with prestige, particularly in family law – that interest started during my second year," she said.
I would absolutely recommend the University of London. It gives you access to a globally recognised degree and high academic standards.
Fast forward to April 2025, and we meet Vidhya again – this time in London, excitedly awaiting her graduation ceremony with her family by her side.
"Honestly, it feels surreal – like a full circle moment," she said. "After all the hard work, I’m finally graduating alongside all the other students."
One of the most rewarding parts of her journey, Vidhya reflected, was the balance it allowed her to strike: "Being able to study externally with such a prestigious university, while staying close to home and connected to my roots."
From late-night exam prep to forming bonds with students from across the world, she looks back fondly on the small details of student life. But it’s the personal transformation that stands out most. "What changed the most for me was the confidence to voice my opinion," she said. "I realised that no opinion is too small – everything matters."
Now, her interests have expanded. While family law remains close to her heart, she’s begun exploring other areas like civil litigation and banking. "We’ll see where it leads," she said.
As for advice to students following in her footsteps?
Keep going. Show up. Every down moment has its reasons. You will definitely see the light.
Standing in London for the first time, surrounded by loved ones, Vidhya's full-circle moment demonstrates what perseverance – and a flexible, global education – can make possible.
Learn how you can embark on your law journey with a University of London LLB.
This page was last updated on 17 June 2025