Torquil Downing

What is your name and what did you study?

My name is Torquil Downing, and I have recently graduated from the University of Chester, having studied LLB Law with Business

Why did you choose Chester?

I chose Chester because I wanted to combine my love of law with my love of business. I knew that I wanted to move away from home, but I specifically chose Chester because of it being much smaller, and a much stronger community feeling than being in a big city.

What did you enjoy most about your course?

Definitely the people!! Whilst the quality of teaching has been incredible, the friendships and connections formed over the years have been a major factor in how much I've loved the course! Being able to learn from some amazing lecturers, who share their experience in law, whilst building friendships, have made the whole course exceptional from the first day of First Year!

Do you have any advice for someone who is thinking about a career in law?

Try and grasp as many opportunities as possible! The Law School provides so many different opportunities that prepare you and help you gain skills. Even if you're not sure if law is the route for you, the skills you will gain are interchangeable for any career.

What will you be doing after you graduate? What area(s) of law are you interested in?

Having always been interested in Corporate and Commercial Law, part of the reason why I chose to study Law with Business, I have been accepted onto a Master's Degree at the University of Sheffield, studying LLM Corporate and Commercial Law.

How did your time at Chester prepare you for life after University?

My time at Chester has taught me a lot about myself. Balancing the pressures of university, volunteering, and working part time, I've learnt how to manage my time effectively, motivate myself, and find different hobbies to have a break from university. The skills I've learnt will aid me greatly in my career, as it will help me prioritise, and focus on the important aspects within my career.

How are you finding life after university?

The transition back to life after University can be difficult, especially if you're moving back home/away from your University friends. It's just about finding a balance, the activities that interest you, and remembering to give yourself a break away from studying.

Did you take part in any extracurricular activities, societies, or internships while studying?

During my time, I've been involved in several volunteering things. I was a Residential Advisor within the Residential Life team. Within the Law School, I was the Academic Liaison for the UoC Student Law Society, I was involved in a number of projects within Chester Community Law Project, such as Reach Out to CAB, being a McKenzie Friend within the Family Court, and leading a research project into Cheshire West and Chester District Council's Immigration support services. During my Final Year, alongside my friends and course mates, Chloe Lewis, and Sophie Kear, we re-established Cheshire and North Wales Junior Lawyers Division, which helps build and strengthen connections between junior lawyers and local firms.