Gap year or go to UOB for law?

(edited 2 months ago)

Hi,
I am confused on what to do regarding university. I achieved A*AB in my A levels and I am also remarking the A and B subjects as I was only 3 marks off in both so may end up with A*A*A. I got into my firm the University of Birmingham, however my dream has always been LSE. With my grades, or even resitting the B subject I believe it’s possible however I don’t really want to take a gap year. Should I carry on with law at UOB or take a gap year and try my luck next year? If I went to UOB the plan would be to try get a first and then do a masters at a better university, or would LSE be better for my future prospects? For context I am looking to pursue international law and would like the best chances to do as well as I can in my career! Any advice would be appreciated.

It sounds like you're in a tough spot, but it’s great that you’re considering all your options carefully. Here’s what you might want to think about:
1. Staying at Birmingham: The University of Birmingham is a strong institution with a solid reputation, especially for law. If you work hard and achieve a first-class degree, combined with relevant experience and extracurriculars, you could still have excellent prospects for a career in international law. A strong performance at Birmingham could set you up well for a prestigious master's program, possibly even at LSE, which would still align you with your long-term goals.
2. Taking a Gap Year for LSE: If LSE has always been your dream, and you believe that achieving A*A*A would give you a solid chance of getting in next year, then taking a gap year could be a valid option. LSE has a globally recognized reputation, particularly in law, and might open doors to more opportunities in international law directly out of undergrad. However, you should consider how you'd feel about taking a year off and whether you're prepared for the challenges and uncertainties that come with reapplying.
3. Considering the Pros and Cons:
- Birmingham: You start your studies right away, and if you excel, you can still pursue top-tier postgraduate opportunities. You avoid the uncertainty of reapplying and potentially not getting into LSE.
- Gap Year for LSE: You give yourself a shot at your dream school, which could give you an edge in certain job markets and a network that aligns more closely with your career goals. However, there’s a risk, and you’d need to use your gap year productively.
4. Long-term Perspective: In the legal field, your experience, the quality of your work, and your networking skills are just as important as the name of your university. Whether you choose Birmingham or LSE, what will matter most is how you leverage your education and opportunities to build your career.
Final Thoughts: Reflect on how much LSE means to you and whether you’re comfortable with the idea of taking a gap year. If you think Birmingham can still provide a solid foundation and the path you envision for yourself, it might be worth staying the course. If LSE feels like an indispensable part of your career plan and you’re confident in your ability to secure a place there, then a gap year could be worth it.
Ultimately, trust your instincts, and whichever path you choose, commit fully to making the most of it.
sorry for long post