Studying the GDL during lockdown: An interview with Amy Weir-Simmons

In this interview Amy Weir-Simmons tells us about her journey into law as a non-law graduate. I first came across Amy via her amazing Instagram page @amydoeslaw where she shares tips for law students. I am in awe of her bravery in transitioning to law and on top of all this she is such a sweet person! Thank you Amy for being a part of the Rama Law interviewee family.

1. Could you please introduce yourself and explain your motivations for studying law?

My name is Amy, otherwise known as @amydoeslaw on Instagram, and I am a non-law graduate currently studying the MA Law at the University of Law. I graduated with First-Class Honours from Royal Holloway, University of London, and I am now pursuing a career in commercial law.

Unlike most people, I didn’t know I wanted to be a lawyer from a young age. I’ve always enjoyed exploring a wide range of interests, which ultimately led me to my interdisciplinary degree in Liberal Arts. This allowed me to cultivate a wide scope of knowledge and skills. Over time, I developed an interest in business and law - particularly how the two work together. As such, a career in commercial law sits perfectly on this axis and would also allow me to continue pursuing my interests in various other topics such as technology and media.

2. Could you describe in 3 words your experience of the GDL (Graduate Diploma of Law)?

Eye-opening, challenging, fast-paced.

3. How has lockdown affected your studies?

I finished my undergrad degree during the first lockdown of 2020. Considering this was at the peak of intensity in my degree, adapting to online exams and a new working environment was definitely a challenge. However, I created a new routine for myself, making sure to include my daily exercise allowance to clear my head, as well as making time to decorate my island on Animal Crossing! It’s all about finding a balance and remembering to take care of yourself.

Since September, I have been lucky enough to participate in face-to-face teaching during my Masters. However, from the end of November this was moved online. Considering I have a rather small apartment in London, I was definitely unprepared for this transition. Nonetheless, I am enjoying utilising the time I have gained back from my commute into Uni to consolidate my learning even further.

4. How do you motivate yourself when you have to revise dry topics?

Changing up my work environment and utilising the Pomodoro technique has really helped me. This encourages you to work in short stints and then reward yourself often with breaks. The Forest app in particular helps to facilitate this - if you leave the app to check messages then the tree you are growing whilst you work dies. I am very determined to grow my own little forest!

5. What book (s) made an impact and why?

Over the summer, I really enjoyed reading "Women Don’t Owe You Pretty" by Florence Given, as it touched upon a lot of pressing issues women face in today’s society. Specifically those relating to beauty and the pressures of social media.