Spotlight on Talent – Amilah Akhtar

Studied: A Level Law, Psychology and Level 3 Criminology
Progression: LLB Law at the University of Birmingham

Amilah Akhtar describes the A Level-hybrid programme she studied at Walsall College as ‘the best of both worlds’.

Her pathway was a combination of A Levels in Law and Psychology with a vocational course in criminology.  This has taken her onto a law degree at the University of Birmingham.

Amilah believes her achievement is down to the amount of independent learning she was doing in college while receiving solid support from her lecturers.

“The freedom you have as a college student is something I liked a lot,” said Amilah.

“It helps prepare you for adult life in a way that isn’t forced on you.  It’s really chill.”

While her family were worried that choosing college over sixth form would mean receiving less support, Amilah has been pleased to reassure them that it’s been the opposite.

“My college lecturers helped me with my coursework, UCAS application, personal statement and the LNAT law entrance exam so I could get on to my degree,” she said.

“I couldn’t have asked for more.  I know others had the same experience too.”

Amilah’s success is also down to ‘flipped learning’.  This is a combination of academic and theory-based study combined with practical activities carried out in class in small groups or teams.

“A Levels are intensive,” Amilah continued.  “They can be overwhelming to some.

“The hybrid pathway cuts down the academic pressure people might experience if they’re spending most of their time reading and absorbing lots of complex information.

“Lecturers are great at adapting how they share knowledge so everyone understands.“

Amilah also found the combination of courses benefitted her learning.

“Modules and topics cross over and overlap,” she said.  “This helps your understanding and academic development.

“For example, we looked at forensic psychology during A Level psychology and in Level 3 criminology.  The contrasting ways of learning from these courses gave me lots of skills.”

“All in all, this hybrid model is designed to suit everyone.  It has a lot to offer.  As does the college as a whole.”

After her law degree, Amilah hopes to complete the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE).  This will be followed by a Higher Rights of Audience (HRA) qualifications so that she can carry out legal proceedings for clients.