Detloff Rump

"When I considered enrolling in the LLB program about four years ago, I must say I was a little nervous. On-line studying – how is that going to work? Where can I get support? Who can I ask dumb questions? How difficult will the exams be? Lots of questions on my mind. But I was positive that I could do it. My job involves a fair amount a travel, and I couldn't see me doing a campus-based, part time course. So I had checked offers of on-line legal studies. Arden University stuck out for me and the people at Arden University gave me a comprehensive (and retrospectively a pretty accurate) picture of what I was getting into, if I were to subscribe to the LLB course. At that point in time, we discussed the programme in detail, the expected time lines and the supporting material, on-line resources etc. I really was fired up, enrolled without hesitation and looked forward to the first modules.

The course material was well structured and straightforward, making it easy to understand. I have found myself working through the modules and taking on additional reading about specific topics that interested me – that was fun.

Then came the Equity and Trust module which served as a reminder that the course – although delivered online – has rather rigorous standards, no different from those at a brick and mortar university.

I have pulled myself together and with better preparation passed the module on the second attempt.

The final module, a 30-credits research project, turned out to be more enjoyable than expected. As I had plenty of time and latitude to choose a topic for my research, I ended up with a legal question that really captivated me: a comparison of privacy protection in two different, yet historically closely related jurisdictions.

Now it's done. And yes, I am a little proud of the achievement. Three and a half years of focus and time management. But the course didn't take over my life; I always put my job first, didn't give up on my social life, sports and other leisure activities, and certainly had weekends without even thinking of my studies.

Will the degree have an impact on my career? If I were younger and in earlier stages of my professional journey, certainly this could be a game changer. It would give me more options and would be a strong signal to my superiors. So in a way, I regret not having done this a couple of decades back. But I am very happy to have done the course nonetheless.

I am working for a global firm in a quite senior position, and my hope is that my LLB journey will inspire one or two colleagues to do something similar. Giving yourself a good challenge, proving your capabilities and widen your horizons… It's a great experience!"