From Advocacy to the Bar: A Journey of Justice and Belonging at LSBU
Starting a legal career at 35 as a disabled single parent from a marginalised background might seem daunting—but for Michelle Brown, it was the beginning of a transformative journey. Inspired by early experiences of injustice and driven by a passion for advocacy, she found not only academic excellence at LSBU but also a community that empowered her to thrive.
Tell me about you, your degree, what course, your career aspirations now and why you chose LSBU?
I was inspired to pursue a career in law by my early experiences growing up in a suburban London town, where my Windrush-generation parents faced discrimination and hostility. Witnessing injustice from a young age sparked a strong desire to advocate for others and promote fairness. I naturally gravitated toward mediation and advocacy long before I understood those terms, and this passion led me to study law.
I began my legal journey at London South Bank University (LSBU) in 2018, where I completed my initial legal studies with a Commendation in 2020. LSBU’s inclusive and supportive environment, along with its emphasis on individuality and critical thinking, made it the ideal place to begin my legal education. I later received the prestigious Queen Mother Scholarship from Middle Temple and was called to the Bar in 2023.
Throughout my journey, I’ve volunteered extensively—from supporting Grenfell survivors to mentoring students and assisting litigants at the Royal Courts of Justice. I now serve as a Presenting Officer, representing the Secretary of State in tribunal hearings. LSBU played a pivotal role in shaping both my personal and professional growth, and I’m proud to have started my legal career there.
How did the course prepare you, both for academic study and for the working world?
The course at LSBU prepared me exceptionally well for both academic study and the professional world. I gained practical experience through competitive placements at LSBU’s Legal Advice Clinic and Family Law Hub, where I applied for roles just as I would in the real world—submitting applications, references, and attending interviews. With my tutor’s guidance, I adopted the STAR method for interviews, a technique I’ve continued to use successfully throughout my legal career.
Opportunities like joining the Debate and Mooting Society helped sharpen my advocacy skills, which proved invaluable during my Bar Vocational Studies Course. The course also deepened my understanding of legal principles, statutory interpretation, and critical thinking. LSBU’s Law School instilled confidence and equipped me with practical, transferable skills that continue to serve me in my current role as a Presenting Officer.
What was your personalised student journey like, and how did the University work with you on this?
My student journey at LSBU was deeply personal and transformative. I entered the legal field at 35, as a disabled single parent from a marginalised background, uncertain about leaving behind everything familiar. But LSBU quickly became a place where I felt seen, heard, and supported. The inclusive environment allowed me to share my experiences freely and pursue my dream without barriers.
The Disability and Neurodiversity team created a tailored learning plan with reasonable adjustments, and my tutors were consistently attentive and communicative. Their support helped me thrive academically, even through the challenges of lockdown. LSBU fostered a strong sense of community and collegiality, which kept our cohort motivated during uncertain times. LSBU’s commitment to student wellbeing and personalised support played a vital role in my success and continues to shape my legal career today.
What do you feel are LSBU's strengths, and how did it equip you for graduation and beyond?
Overall, LSBU encourages its students to think outside the box and helps them realise their full potential. It does not put limitations where there is no need to do so, and that signifies a university that genuinely cares about its students.
I remember the lecturers going above and beyond to help us. They would stay back at times to make sure we understood a certain topic and listened to students' concerns regarding certain issues, if any. Therefore, creating an environment to thrive.
Additionally, LSBU’s Legal Advice Clinic has provided valuable support to the local community over the years. The senior staff train the student volunteers thoroughly and ensure a high-quality service for all clients. Each student is dedicated and committed to their clients. Working there offers significant work experience and responsibility early in one's legal career. This role helped me to develop my conference skills and interview techniques, and now I am often commended for my client interactions and good interpersonal skills.
Conclusively, I believe that the diversity of LSBU is its most important strength. A diverse community is a strong community. One that ensures ingenuity, collegiality, equality, and equity.
How would you describe LSBU Group to future students / what advice do you have?
If I had to sum up LSBU, I would say that it is a supportive community of diverse minds, continually evolving for the betterment of its students and staff. It has a welcoming environment where individuals feel comfortable and valued.
My advice to future students would be to make sure you utilise the opportunities afforded to you by LSBU, whilst studying. Because once you leave and transition into the professional world (further study or work), you will not have the same level of choices to aid your skillset. Nor the same amount of time to do so.
Make sure to join relevant societies or groups that mean something to you. I found the debate club fun, and I met lots of new people. I learnt a lot from my peers, and we all stayed connected throughout Lockdown. Joining a club builds character, complements your academia, and makes new connections. This is a part of networking, and I can honestly say that at least 40% of my career involves Networking. Why not start now?
Lastly, I would say to make sure you put your mental and physical health first. Talk about any worries you have with a member of staff you trust. They will be able to signpost you in the right direction. The University has a great student counselling service to help support you. Good luck, and I hope to see you around the LSBU corridors!