Dan Paul

Dan took advantage of the opportunities offered to him and discovered his true passions in Law. He has since thrived at the University of Reading, participating in challenging experiences that have helped him develop personally and professionally.

“The unique learning and research opportunities available will give any student a competitive edge whilst pursuing their careers.

The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Programme (UROP) has probably been the most significant opportunity I’ve undertaken, but I have also taken up positions on the School of Law’s journal (‘Foxhill Law Journal’) and the student newspaper (‘The Spark’).

The many career fairs that take place on campus have also allowed me to find other opportunities, such as becoming a student coach for the Coach Bright charity. For leisure, I also joined the Mixed Hockey society in my first and second year, making loads of new friends and also finding other students who study Law.

I think all of the remarkable experiences I have had provides all the reasons someone needs for coming to Reading to study Law.”

The UROP enabled Dan to research with an academic at the university on a real-life project and develop excellent employability skills.

“I saw this as a fantastic opportunity to improve my research skills ahead of my final year and to add some incredible experience to my CV. It was also a great opportunity to delve deeper into a topic I found interesting. I developed my research, analysis, presentation, prioritisation, and project management skills as a result of the internship." 

Dan was also able to develop his research skills as he worked with academics to produce a new book.

“My UROP project focussed on peace operations across the world and as part of my work, I completed literature reviews and drew up policy documents on the peacekeeping efforts of different regional entities. I also researched different peacekeeping missions, including those in Former Yugoslavia and Africa.

It was exciting to be a part of such a unique experience and working with an academic at the university on their project (which was a new book!) was incredibly insightful; I learnt a lot about the process of research and about academia as a career during meetings with my supervisor. At the end of the project, I also had the opportunity to present my findings at a showcase alongside other UROP students.”

Dan valued the support available to him throughout his degree.

“There’s a plethora of support available from the School of Law and University. The best part, in my opinion, is the willingness by members of staff to chat to you about any concerns or questions you have – whether based on studies, career aspirations, or personal dilemmas. Only recently a friend of mine had asked a question to a lecturer at the end of class about career pathways and left with a plan to talk about it over a coffee. They want to help you in any way they can.

The careers service is also excellent and gives you confidence about life after graduation.”

The freedom to choose your modules was vital for discovering Dan’s passions and specialism in Law.

“There have been so many interesting modules over the course, from international law to trusts law, but my favourite this year is Children, Families, and The State. Not only is the content intriguing and eye-opening, but the assessment method is also really unique. We get to involve ourselves in a mock case which enhances our employability skills as well as legal knowledge. This isn’t seen much at other universities, and I think it’s evidence of the pioneering attitude that exists here at University of Reading.

The university also really wants to commend your achievements. I was awarded a Chancellor’s Award for receiving one of the highest average marks which has really encouraged me.”

Dan’s time within the Law School has exposed his passion for family and child law and is now working towards becoming a solicitor to help individuals and families who need it.