Scholastica Faith Nakol

Healthcare Ethics and Law LLM

Why did you choose this course at The University of Manchester Law School?

The University of Manchester is one of the leading institutions in world class research with staff internationally recognised as being at the forefront of their subjects. Getting an option to study at such a prestigious University, is simply not something one can take for granted.

Moreover, I made up my mind to join this University because of the staff. From the time of application onwards, the Law recruitment team were so helpful it gave me have a sense of belonging even though, I was still far from setting foot here. Their cordial conduct made me want nothing else but to study at this great University. And so, pursuing a master's degree in Healthcare Ethics and Law was like taking up a new challenge in the most favourable environment.

Manchester city being diverse and multicultural helps provide a suitable surrounding for international students to cope as they endeavour to fit in.

The University of Manchester Law School seemed to offer the kind of course that I desired; an interdisciplinary course with a legal component, applicable to real life scenarios. After two years of clinical practice, I was inclined to specialise in Obstetrics and Gynaecology since my heart had a soft spot for mothers and newborns. However, the rising trend of medico-legal issues in my dream field of specialty gave me a deep desire to explore and understand the new demand for interdisciplinary interaction to better healthcare provision.

What do you most enjoy about studying here?

There are many enjoyable things about studying here but the most outstanding one has been the learner-friendly environment in terms of the well-resourced library providing 24/7 suitable environment for study and supportive academic staff who are always available to guide whenever necessary. 

What has been the highlight of your course so far?

I guess every challenge usually has a twist; my ambitions have been moulded, with the enthusiasm in Medico-legal issues generating a deeper interest in the law field although I initially imagined that I could pinch a little bit of it.

Have you been involved in any of the Law societies or events?

I had a chance to attend a seminar on, how much information is enough, practical perspectives on medical risk disclosure. This was complementary to the taught concepts of consent, patient autonomy and risk disclosure.

What are your plans for after graduation, and how do you feel studying at Manchester has prepared you?

My whole learning experience has transformed my attitude towards challenges in life, defined my focus on how I could impact on my community and raised the limit bar for my targets because studying at The University of Manchester will translate into greater opportunities.

Is there one valuable experience that you will take away that you could have only got at Manchester?

One valuable experience that I could have only experienced at Manchester is the warm and refreshing fellowship with brethren at Jubilee Church Manchester. The family at church has been my home away from home. My motivation, strength and drive to soar high in life, results from a thriving relationship with God.

What are your plans after graduation, and how do you feel studying here has prepared you for this?

I am not yet certain about my plans after graduation but, I feel that I will be well-equipped for whatever opportunity might come along.

What advice would you give to new Law students at Manchester?

For anyone planning to join the Law School, I recommend that you;

• Be flexible and open-minded because if you are transitioning into new grounds, being able to adapt and learn new skills is necessary if one is to achieve their goals.
• Aim at utilising the different venues of learning, not relying upon your own proficiency but instead, purposing to use every chance to better oneself beyond achieving academic excellence.
• Do not allow the challenges and hurdles in your day-to-day life to cloud your vision, remind yourself continually about what you came for. This is important because, you are your own number one cheerleader.