Why I Chose to Study Law

Written by Madeleine Truffy

“You’re studying law? So you’re going to be a lawyer, right?” Not quite.

I have always been more interested in politics, diplomacy and international relations. My long-term ambition is to work for the United Nations or a global NGO, advocating for women’s rights, sustainable development and environmental protection. Yet here I am, surrounded by case law, reading judicial decisions and analysing statutes. At first glance, this might seem like a digression, but I see it as the most tactical path.

Studying law is about more than just preparing for the Bar or SQE exams. To me, it’s equally

about learning how societies define justice, power and responsibility. Law is the language

through which a community expresses its values and resolves its disputes. It doesn’t just

mirror social change; it often drives it, too. The UK’s partly written, constantly evolving

constitution strikes a balance between continuity and reform. Through studying common law, I have come to view the law as a living, adaptive framework that reflects and challenges society to improve.

The structures of international politics are also underpinned by law. Every treaty, policy and

diplomatic agreement is based on a legal foundation. While diplomacy relies on persuasion

and empathy, it must ultimately operate within the confines of international law.

Understanding these boundaries is what transforms good intentions into effective action. In

this sense, studying law is not a diversion from international relations. Rather, it is essential

to it.

My interest lies in the connection between law and global justice. For example, campaigning for women’s rights necessitates an understanding of legal systems that either uphold or (often) fail to uphold gender equality. Similarly, fighting for environmental protection necessitates an understanding of how international law governs sustainability, corporate accountability and climate policy. Law can transform advocacy into tangible progress. It connects centuries of legal tradition with today’s urgent issues, such as the regulation of artificial intelligence, climate justice and safeguarding human rights.

Studying law requires both precision and imagination. It’s not just about learning what is, but also about questioning what ought to be. It is this intellectual tension between reality and aspiration that makes the subject so compelling.

Of course, this is an idealised vision of the law. My studies have also revealed its flaws and

limitations. Through moots, legal clinics and student societies, I gained an insight into how

legal systems can be inconsistent, slow or even unjust. Yet these experiences have been

invaluable, and there are many more to come in law school. They have shown me that it is

precisely the imperfections of the law that make it worth engaging with. They have also

equipped me with practical reasoning, argumentation and critical reflection skills. Even if I

never appear in court or represent a client, I know that the discipline, insight and clarity I

have gained from studying law will remain invaluable.