Gibran Saragi Turnip

Hi, I am Gibran, a postgraduate student in LLM Law and Social Justice. I am originally from Pematangsiantar, a city situated within Indonesia, a nation renowned for its abundant and captivating natural landscapes as well as its diverse cultural heritage.

As an undergraduate student at the University of Sumatera Utara, I successfully completed my LLB degree. Throughout my academic journey, I have nurtured a longstanding aspiration to pursue a postgraduate program abroad. I hold the belief that pursuing education abroad offers enhanced prospects for academic and professional advancement. Having been awarded a full scholarship by The Indonesia Endowment Funds for Education, I finally have the opportunity to pursue this goal.

My review of suitable academic programs to reach by goal shows that, the LLM program at the University of Leeds features Law and Social Justice is a perfect match. I believe that the range of module options available in this course, along with my professional experience as a Judicial Analyst at the Supreme Court of Indonesia, aligns well with the criteria I am seeking in a postgraduate programme. Furthermore, the reputation of the university: The QS World University Ranking places the University of Leeds among the top 75 universities in the world, and Time Higher Education ranks it among the top 10 law schools in the United Kingdom. The University of Leeds is also a member of the prestigious Russell Group, which is comprised of 24 of the United Kingdom's most prestigious research-intensive universities.

People in Leeds are also very welcoming to international students. It will make you easier to settle in this lively city.

Leeds, as a city, is significantly less crowded compared to other urban cities in the UK, such as London. However, Leeds remains a vibrant and culturally diverse city. There are so many places to visit in this city; I enjoy going to Roundhay Park, which is only 25 minutes away by bus from my accommodation. It’s one of the most beautiful park I’ve ever seen in my life. Imagine a park containing lakes in the heart of Leeds! It is remarkable. Furthermore, you can meet people from all over the world in Leeds.  Speaking from experience, as an international student, sometimes it is crucial to have peers from the same background. The good news is, there are a lot of international students and communities for you to join in order to meet your fellow peers. People in Leeds are also very welcoming to international students. It will make you easier to settle in this lively city.

The University of Leeds offers a diverse range of clubs and groups that students can actively engage with and become members of. Participation in various events, such as cultivating friendships, can have a positive impact on students' social lives, professional growth, and overall university experience. There are more than 300+ social clubs & activities which is a valuable resource for creating a diverse and inclusive campus environment, fostering international friendships, and preparing students to thrive in an interconnected global society. I am currently a member of an Acapella group where I can meet individuals who share the same interest, so we could converse further. Remember that it is always enjoyable to meet people who share your interests!

For those of you who are applying to the University of Leeds but find it difficult to locate a place to live during your time here, there's no need to worry. The institution offers a wide range of comfortable student housing suited to your needs and budget. I am currently residing in a student accommodation called Royal Park Flats, from which I can walk to the law school in approximately seven minutes!

Simply said, I am filled with immense enthusiasm regarding my choice to undertake a Master's degree programme at the University of Leeds. If you have questions, get in touch with me at gibran-link@leeds.ac.uk or chat with me on UniBuddy.