"It's my dream since I was a kid": Samiul's law journey with the University of London

In early 2024, while in his final year of study at London College of Legal Studies (South), Samiul took part in the University's international brand campaign, which profiled students at Recognised Teaching Centres in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Malaysia. At the time, he spoke about his passion for legal studies, his aspirations, and the sense of purpose he found in his chosen path.

"I grew up hearing my grandfather’s stories – he worked in the judiciary," Samiul shared during that first interview. "That kind of pushed me towards a fascination with law. I started delving into the subject during my A-levels, and that was the first time I really got a sense of what lawyers do. I fell in love with it."

Reflecting on his experience studying at LCLS (South), he described it as "a universal life experience" that helped bridge the transition from school to a more independent, undergraduate-style education. "It gives you a chance to network with people already in the profession – our faculty members are practising barristers." 

His time as a student was shaped by the challenges of the pandemic – he began his degree just after completing his A-levels, all from home – but he found encouragement in small but significant milestones.

One highlight came when he took part in a public speaking competition not long after COVID restrictions were lifted. "It was my first competition, and I ended up as the first runner-up," he recalled. "It was a personal success story. It showed me I could do it."

Back then, he described his ultimate goal: "If I ever get that far, I want to end up in the judiciary. That’s the dream."

In April 2025, we met Samiul again – this time at the Barbican Centre in London, where he had travelled to attend his graduation ceremony. Wearing his cap and gown, he reflected on the journey that had brought him there. 

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"All the all-nighters – not just during university, but also during my O-levels and A-levels – have led to this moment," he said. "The best part was when I saw the message that I had completed my degree."

From that day onward, there will always be a Bachelor of Laws attached to my name. That’s a dream I’ve had since I was a kid. 

Samiul is now pursuing his Bar at Law qualification in Manchester, UK, with the goal of becoming a barrister of England and Wales. "It’s a hectic chapter, but a fulfilling one," he said. 

Looking back, he described the people he met as one of the best parts of his experience – not just lecturers and professors, but the other staff and fellow students he saw every day. "It was like a hot pot of diversity – people from all walks of life coming together and sharing their experiences."

His advice to others? "The challenges might seem huge when you’re in them, but they’re there for a reason. Stick at it. One day, when the cloud clears, you’ll be standing proud."

Would he do it all again? "In a heartbeat."

Learn how you can achieve your Bachelor of Laws (LLB) with the University of London.