With a background in French and Linguistics, Maddie never thought she’d become a solicitor. But through the flexibility and accessibility offered by BARBRI’s prep courses and the SQE, this was made possible. Here, she shares her story.
Maddie, can you tell us about your background and what led you to pursue a career in law?
I was actually quite unsure about pursuing a career as a solicitor, especially since I didn’t have a law degree and come from an educational background in French and Linguistics. The idea of entering the legal profession seemed unattainable at first, but when the SQE was introduced, I saw it as a chance to make my dream of becoming a solicitor a reality. For someone like me, it's made things much easier for people without a law degree to qualify. I also didn’t want to spend years doing a GDL and LPC, the SQE offered a much shorter and more affordable route. It was also flexible, which was a huge advantage for me as I was able to work full-time while studying.
How did BARBRI’s courses help you navigate this career change?
BABRRI’s courses were a game-changer. They offered the perfect balance of flexibility and structure that allowed me to work and study full-time, which was essential for me. The online learning format meant I could study whenever and wherever I had time. I didn’t have to commit to a strict classroom schedule, which was fantastic for fitting study into my life. BARBRI’s structure allowed me to work at my own pace, and they provided a lot of support throughout the entire process. I felt like I had everything I needed to succeed, even though I had no prior legal background.
What do you think about the SQE as a route to qualifying as a solicitor without a law degree?
Without the SQE, I would have had to take a GDL, followed by an LPC, and then a two-year training contract – a process that would have taken years and been incredibly expensive. The SQE cuts down that timeline significantly and allows people to gain qualifying work experience along the way. For me, the SQE has made a legal career much more accessible.
You mentioned that you weren’t sure at first if studying law online would work for you. How did you find the online learning experience with BARBRI?
Initially, I was a little apprehensive about studying entirely online because I wasn’t sure how well I would adapt to it. But in the end, it worked out much better than I expected. The online format actually turned out to be perfect for me, as it gave me the freedom to study on my own terms. As long as I had an internet connection, I could study whenever I needed to. BARBRI also made sure that I didn’t feel isolated – there were live online sessions, so I still got to interact with tutors and other students, which helped me feel engaged and supported. My learning coach was also a fantastic resource; she kept me motivated and was always there to answer questions and offer advice. Having that support throughout my studies made a huge difference.
How did BARBRI’s support system help you throughout your SQE preparation?
The support system was incredibly helpful. My learning coach played a big role in keeping me on track because she was always available when I needed help or reassurance. Whenever I felt overwhelmed or unsure, I could reach out to her, and she would offer clear guidance. She helped me stay focused and gave me the confidence I needed to keep going, especially when I had doubts about my progress. The structure of the course also helped me stay organised and on top of my studies. I knew exactly what I had to do each week, and the resources available to me were really comprehensive.
What would you say to someone who is considering the SQE route, particularly those without a law degree?
If you’re considering the SQE, especially if you don’t have a law degree, I would highly recommend it. For me, it was a perfect fit because it allowed me to pursue my dream without spending years on traditional law school routes. My advice would be to trust the process. When I first started, I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to grasp all the legal material in time for the exam, but I stuck with it, trusted the system, and now I’m here. The key is to stay consistent, work hard, and trust that the preparation will get you where you need to go.
What advice would you give to new students studying for the SQE with BARBRI?
My main advice would be to trust the process and stay patient. The material can feel overwhelming at first, especially if you don’t have a legal background, but BARBRI’s structured approach makes it manageable. They provide everything you need to succeed, and if you keep working steadily, you’ll get there. Also, don’t hesitate to reach out for help when you need it – the support is there for a reason. BARBRI’s team is always responsive, and your learning coach will guide you through the entire process. Stay motivated, keep a positive attitude, and you’ll be well on your way to success.
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