Reading time: three minutes

The woman I was a month ago and the woman I am today are two very different people and it’s all thanks to beginning my Bar Vocational Studies course at City, University of London. So, for my first blog post I thought I'd discuss the core lessons I’ve learnt so far and some things I wish I knew before I started the Bar course!

For more information on the bar course in general, check out this Feature from LCN.

1.  Use a trolley backpack – even if it feels weird

Using a trolley backpack took me much longer than it should’ve, and it’s entirely because I had a very cute, very pink backpack which had been my vital companion for a long time. It was sturdy, matched my entire theme of pink… yes, I went to law school because of legally blonde. Unfortunately for me, the Bar course demands carrying very heavy books – I’m talking hardcover practitioner textbooks that weigh as much as a toddler.

A trolley suitcase will be your new best friend. Yes, they can be unattractive and bulky, but they’re functional and prevent your shoulders from breaking. And that’s what matters.

2. Organising your time is key

By the end of my first week of the Bar course, I was drowning in the workload. There was so much work and not nearly enough hours in a week to get it done. Find an organisational method that works for you – whether that’s a physical diary, an app or both.

Personally, I have a to-do list for each week and use a physical diary to time-block my day. I make sure to schedule in rest times between tasks and keep the schedule as realistic as possible, which is key to making your schedule work. It’s all well and good to take an idealistic view and schedule too many things, but chances are you won’t get it all done and then your entire plan is out of order.

3. There’s a LOT of reading

The reading I had to undertake during my LLB was a drop in a bucket compared to the Bar course demands. Honestly, spending 5 hours a day reading would be considered ‘light’. So be prepared for many long nights of solitude as you flick through massive textbooks.

4. It coms at a cost

Not only do you pay an significant amount of money for tuition fee and living expenses, there’s also the added cost of qualifying sessions. One way to mitigate the cost is to do a combined LLM programme, because this then qualifies you to take out a student loan. It's important to note that this loan doesn’t cover the full cost of the course, so you’ll likely have to look at alternative finances. Whether that be help from family and friends or scholarships, there are options available. If you’re unsuccessful in securing a scholarship or other sources of finances, all hope is not lost. You can still undergo the Bar course on a part-time basis while working full-time.

5. Stick with your hobbies!

The Bar course is intense andthe last thing you need is to spend every second of your time reading. Make sure you find something that will take you away from the workload! Personally, I’ve taken up running in the mornings because it helps me set the mood for the day. You could take up painting, poetry, or cooking – there’s no wrong hobby. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something you enjoy!