Sam Wysocki

LLB Law (2018) 

What did you enjoy about your degree programme?

In Law we have syndicate groups, a group consisting of 12 students, for the first 2 years of the course. Being placed in a group with the same people for two years really helps you build those working relationships – something which is really important in a legal, and in fact any, environment.

Tell us about the award you have received. What does this award mean to you?

The Ashurst Prize is awarded to the final year law student who has demonstrated an excellent academic record along with evidence that the skills developed have been put to good use in the wider community throughout the degree.

I must say I never expected it; I was so used to seeing the awards given on purely academic grounds but to see an award which takes into account both academic and extra-curricular achievement is quite something. Credit to Ashurst for wanting to recognise the volunteering and legal work we get up to alongside our degrees! Being awarded the Ashurst Prize is a special feeling, I'm not even sure it's sunk in yet!

What has been the highlight of your time at Exeter?

The highlight of my time at Exeter has got to be the trips I've gone on with different societies throughout the three years. One particularly memorable one was the beginner's ultimate frisbee tournament weekend in first year. It's an amazing experience which I would thoroughly recommend to anyone considering trying out the sport! But this, and many other such events, demonstrates the vibrant, exciting atmosphere of Exeter societies and the importance they have for students.

What will you miss the most about University?

I will definitely miss the opportunities to take part in anything and everything you want – or can fit into your free time. Whether that be the annual Chicken Feast with NOOMA or a voluntary dog walk with a mate, you'll never get bored.

What advice would you give to current and future students?

Don't be afraid to make yourself look stupid – everyone gets something wrong in their seminars. Be that annoying person who likes to contribute too much – if you don't take yourself too seriously you'll only get more confident and in law confidence is key!

What are your plans now that you have graduated?

I have been working in the family department at Charlesworth Nicholl and Co since almost immediately after finishing my finals. I will commence my further qualifications, whether that be the BPTC or LPC, in the next academic year (September 2019) and until I've made my choice as to which route to pursue in the medium term, I won't know what more the future holds!