A Buckinghamshire New University (BNU) law graduate who arrived at university lacking confidence has come “full circle” - returning to the lecture hall to teach the next generation of students.
Uzoma Osonwa, who completed her LLB Law at BNU before going on to gain a distinction at master’s level, said when she first started her degree, the idea of standing at the front of a classroom felt a world away.
After a meteoric rise which saw her bag a first-class degree followed by a distinction at master’s level, Uzoma is now back as a visiting lecturer.
“It was quite surreal,” she said, reflecting on her first day back on campus. “I was standing in the exact classroom where I used to sit as a student. It really made me stop and think about just how far I’ve come.”
But Uzoma’s journey wasn’t just about hitting the books and studying it hard – it was about finding her voice.
“I chose BNU because of the smaller classes. I needed that support at the time because I lacked confidence,” she explained. “But after a few months, I started to feel more comfortable and that’s when I began to grow.”
That confidence helped her through the more challenging parts of her studies and helped her develop an interest in real estate law.
“A lot of people think you have to be naturally loud or very confident to study law, but that’s not true,” she said. “I’m proof that you don’t need it all figured out from day one. I’d tell anyone to just go for it and you’ll grow into it.”
Her achievements did not go unnoticed. Head of Law Sukhninder Panesar described her as a ‘fantastic example’ of student success.
“Uzoma worked incredibly hard and grew in confidence year on year,” he said. “It’s wonderful to see her return to BNU, supporting other students on their own journeys.”
Alongside her lecturing role, Uzoma is set on securing a training contract as she continues her ambition of becoming a real estate lawyer.
She also hopes to pass on the importance of building relationships during university.
“It’s so important to speak to people and put a name to a face,” she added. “That’s how you build a network, build your confidence and get the most out of your time at university.”