Course Spotlight - LL206: International Financial Regulation in the Digital Era

We sat down with Kelsie, who took the course LL206: International Financial Regulation in the Digital Era in 2022, to find out about her experience of the course, meeting her fellow students and her top tips to future students. 

 

Why did you decide to attend LSE Summer School?

I was in my first year of my undergraduate law degree and studied at another institution in London. My primary motivation for attending LSE Summer School was the opportunity to take a course that was not typically offered at the early stage of my degree programme, and I was able to complete it in just a few weeks. I was drawn to the school's exceptional academic reputation and distinct culture, which made it an ideal choice for me. Additionally, I was excited about meeting and interacting with students from all over the world.

Why did you choose LL206?

I have been interested in finance and financial law for a long time, but it is not typically offered as part of an undergraduate law program. Also, as I aspire to become a commercial lawyer, I recognise the importance of having a strong foundation in finance. The LL206 course presented a valuable opportunity for me to explore both my academic and professional interests. By taking this course, I hoped to confirm my interest in the field while also benefiting from the excellent introduction provided by this prestigious university.

Tell us about an average day as a student on LL206

A typical day in LL206 begins with a 1.5-hour tutorial in the morning, led by a tutor and attended by a group of approximately twelve students. The tutorial focuses on the same topic covered in the previous day's lecture and is highly interactive. It provides an opportunity for me to ask any remaining questions I may have from the previous day's lecture and engage in group discussions. The tutor also provides explanations for any particularly challenging parts of the lecture material.

After the tutorial, there is a lunch break where I have the option to eat with my friends or grab something to eat on my own. Due to LSE's convenient location, there are many food options available. After lunch, I would usually head to the Marshall building on campus, which offers a nice study area where I can read or prepare for the upcoming lecture.

In the afternoon, we attend a three-hour lecture in the lecture hall. The lecture is also interactive, allowing us to ask questions throughout the session. After the lecture, I sometimes choose to stay on campus to do some reading or explore additional materials to enhance my understanding of the day's class and prepare for the next day's tutorial.

After all that, I usually spend some time with my friends. Within walking distance from LSE, there is a bustling shopping street called Covent Garden. There are numerous good restaurants and shops to explore in the area. Occasionally, I also like to visit my favourite park, St. James. The park offers a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere with a variety of birds, a beautiful river, and trees that are perfect for a tranquil late afternoon.

What was your favourite part of LL206?

I particularly appreciated that LL206 strikes a balance between being an excellent introductory course and having in-depth content. While the course can be intense at times, the time and energy invested in it are undoubtedly worth it. Prior to taking this course, I had minimal knowledge of finance. However, after completing the class, I not only had a broad understanding of the financial world but could also explain complex financial concepts with confidence.

Another benefit of the course is that it emphasises critical aspects of finance and financial law that can apply to any jurisdiction, not just England. This allows for meaningful discussions about the unique characteristics of our respective jurisdictions while also finding common ground. Overall, the comprehensive and practical approach of LL206 has made it a rewarding learning experience for me.

What advice would you give to students considering LL206?

I would recommend they first explore some introductory texts on finance and financial law. If these materials interest you, then this course could be an excellent fit for you. Additionally, it's important to prepare yourself for the intensity of the course and be willing to put in the necessary time and effort to succeed. Finally, don't hesitate to actively participate in the tutorials and lectures, and take advantage of the opportunity to engage with your peers and the course materials.

What are your short-term professional goals?

My short term goal is to secure a training contract and join a commercial law firm.

Was meeting and talking to other students on your course easy?

I found it very easy to connect and communicate with my fellow students on LL206. Despite coming from diverse backgrounds, everyone was approachable and friendly. It was a pleasure to engage with them in class discussions, tutorials, and informal conversations outside of class.

How would you explain LL206 to someone who has never heard of it?

LL206 is an excellent course that provides an introduction to the complex and dynamic world of finance. It covers fundamental concepts and principles that are essential for understanding the financial industry and its regulatory framework. Overall, it is a highly informative and engaging course that is well worth taking for anyone interested in finance or financial law.

How has LL206 helped you in your undergraduate degree/career plans?

LL206 has had a significant impact on both my undergraduate studies and my career plans. Firstly, it confirmed my strong interest in finance and financial law, which led me to choose an optional module focused on finance in my final year of university. Additionally, the knowledge and skills that I gained from LL206 have proven valuable in the application process for pursuing a career as a commercial lawyer.

How did you find the course and teaching experience at LSE?

I found that the course was intense, but in a very positive way. The course content was both practical and informative, and the structure of having lectures and tutorials back-to-back allowed for a deeper understanding of the material. The interactive nature of the tutorials also provided an opportunity to clarify any questions or doubts that arose during the lectures. Overall, I couldn't imagine a better way to learn so much about a new field within just a few weeks.