David Gibbs - LLB and LLM (Commercial Law)
David studied the LLB and LLM (Commercial Law)
Law degrees can be taught by any number of institutions but skills are essential for a career in law, which is what I learnt at Derby
”David graduated in 2010 having completed his LL.B and LLM (Commercial Law)
Why I studied law at Derby
A degree was a significant part of my career aspirations in law. To move in to the field of academia or practice in the legal sector a degree is an essential requirement. Studying law at Derby was always interesting, as the lecturers continually offered different ways of learning, through practical work, oral presentations or comparative analysis in Corporate Governance.
Preparing me for my career
The most rewarding part of the course was having my mind opened to how society functions and operates. I learnt about commercial theories and also studied international business, without which I would not have had the necessary skills to get my current job.
I currently work as an Associate Tutor and PhD candidate at the University of East Anglia. My job entails me to prepare and give company law seminars and lectures to third year undergraduate students. I also help design and mark coursework and exams.
In conjunction with this I also research and am writing my doctoral thesis. It offers me the chance to attend and present at conferences. This year I have attended a research colloquium and presented my research at a symposium in Norwich. I will also be attending a conference at Leeds University on Directors' Duties in September, where some leading researchers in my field will be presenting and discussing contemporary issues relating to directors and the financial crisis.
A supportive university
The lecturers at Derby were always supportive and friendly. They engage with the students and are clearly passionate about their subjects and the institution itself. I would recommend a law degree at Derby. The University of Derby are leaders in promoting and teaching skills to students and you will graduate with more than a degree from this University.
The module system, allows you to experience more areas of law, and prepares you better for working life. I believe this provides a more realistic picture for students about life after university, especially in a legal career.
My knowledge and experience
Derby offers great modules, which are interesting and engaging and will always make you think. The knowledge and experiences gained during my studies at Derby are vital to my work. Without this knowledge I would not be able to teach or research areas of Company Law. The skills I gained, however, were most important. Learning to effectively work in a team from the Skills module to developing communication skills in public law or being taught how to provide practical solutions across a number of modules were all vital to my current success. Law degrees can be taught by any number of institutions but skills are what are essential for a career in law, which is what I learnt at Derby.
