It’s Never Too Late | Marium’s Journey to Law
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Continuing our Silence Your Critic interview series, we recently spoke to Marium, a single mother of three and postgraduate Law graduate from Arden University.
Marium shares how she overcame financial pressures, cultural expectations, and self-doubt to pursue her dream of becoming a solicitor. Her journey shows that it’s never too late to rewrite your story and achieve the career you’ve always wanted.
You can watch our video with Marium here and read her full interview below.
Marium, what inspired you to return to education later in life?
As a single mum of three, I’d always put my children first. Life moved fast. I became a mum at 19, got married, then became a single parent again at 30. At that point, I realised I’d never really had the chance to focus on myself or my own ambitions.
Starting my education after 30 felt daunting, but it was something I needed to do for me and for my kids. I wanted to show them that no matter your circumstances, you can still achieve something meaningful.
You mentioned balancing studies with raising your family. How did you manage that?
There’s never a perfect schedule when you’re running a household and raising kids. But Arden’s flexibility made it possible. I studied early mornings or late nights, whenever I could fit it in around family life.
There were moments of guilt and self-doubt, of course, but I learned to take each day as it came and adjust when needed. Having that flexibility meant I could keep going, no matter what life threw my way.
What made you choose Arden University?
Honestly, it was the flexibility and support. I needed a programme that understood my situation, and Arden did exactly that. Studying online meant I could continue working and caring for my kids while completing my LLM in Professional Legal Practice.
Without that flexibility, I don’t think it would have been possible. Arden made me feel supported at every step, from my tutors to the student services team.
You’ve achieved a lot since graduating. Tell us about your next steps.
I’ve recently secured a role with a leading legal firm in their Court of Protection team, which I’m really proud of. I was also named a Top 10 finalist for the Clifford Chance Career Changer of the Year Award 2025, representing Arden University. That was an incredible moment.
Next, I’ll be taking my SQE exams and working towards becoming a solicitor. It still feels surreal to say that!
You’ve mentioned wanting to inspire others. What message would you share with women who feel it’s too late to start again?
I want women, especially mothers, to know that it’s not the end. Iit can be a new beginning. You can dream big, even if your life didn’t follow the traditional path.
I tell my daughter all the time: don’t let anyone define what your future should look like. Believe in yourself and take that first step, because once you do, you’ll realise you were capable all along.
Looking back, what does this journey mean to you?
It’s been life-changing. I went from doubting myself to becoming someone my kids see as a role model. My eldest son now wants to study law too; that’s the biggest reward of all.
Education gave me back my identity, my confidence, and my voice. I’m proud of what I’ve achieved, and I’m even prouder to show my children that it’s never too late to follow your dreams.
Marium’s story is a reminder that resilience and determination can overcome any barrier. At Arden University, we’re proud to support students like Marium who are redefining success on their own terms.
If her journey inspires you, remember — it’s never too late to start again.
Find out more about our flexible degree courses designed to fit around your life.
