Muriel from Nigeria studied a degree preparation course with Kaplan, before progressing to a bachelor’s degree in Law with Business at Nottingham Trent University. She now works as a Senior Solicitor in a power company.
In this blog, Muriel explains how Kaplan prepared her for her job as a Senior Solicitor.
Developing skills and connections with Kaplan
As a Kaplan student, I developed skills and connections that have been invaluable in my professional journey.
For example, I was the student representative for my class at the International College. This allowed me to build a strong support network of mentors, sponsors, and colleagues — relationships that have continued to positively impact my career to this day.
My professional work experiences with Kaplan also enabled me to develop my career skills. I was managing files, supporting project leaders, handling student concerns, providing administrative support and much more.
By the second and third years of my law degree, I was able to secure internship roles with major law firms in England. I was ready for my professional life, and I was able to discuss many of these experiences in my interview processes.
My experiences at the College and University have played a significant role in shaping my career path. These experiences have helped me become a well-rounded individual, both academically and personally.
Overcoming challenges
Starting out as an international student is never easy — new country, new learning environment, new friends, culture shock, and the list goes on. Having clarity and building strong communities has been instrumental in helping me overcome the challenges I faced as an international student.
For instance, I still stay in touch with the friends I made at the College and University over fourteen years ago, many of whom have become lifelong friends.
Staying connected and not isolating myself was very beneficial. I built good relationships with my tutors and student support staff, which made it easier to approach them for help with everything from finding part-time jobs, to arranging accommodation or seeking advice on adapting to new experiences.
My career after graduating
After graduation, I attended the Nigerian Law School where I was admitted to the Nigerian Bar in 2016 as a Barrister and Solicitor. I went on to practice law for several years at reputable Nigerian law firms where I honed my skills and expertise in several practice areas.
In 2021 I migrated to Canada and have held several senior policy advisor and managerial roles as a provincial government employee. I was also recently called to the Nova Scotia Bar in 2024. I am now licensed to practice law as a Barrister and Solicitor in two jurisdictions: Nova Scotia, Canada and Nigeria. I am currently working as a Senior Solicitor in a power company.
A law degree will equip you with skills in creative thinking, resilience, flexibility and agility, curiosity and lifelong learning. Your career is only as limited as you want it to be.
Apply to study abroad
If you would like to follow in Muriel’s footsteps to a successful legal career, Kaplan can help! We help international students apply to a degree overseas, providing support and advice at every step of the way.
If you don’t meet the entry requirements for university abroad, you can take a degree preparation course. When you pass the course at the required level, with good attendance, you’re guaranteed entry to your chosen degree. Contact one of our friendly Education Advisors today to begin your journey.
