Avinda Bhangal, now a solicitor, shares her story of completing the SQE2 exam. Here, she shares her journey and why she chose BARBRI to do her SQE2 Prep course with.  

When did you first decide to pursue a career in the legal sector?  

Ever since I was six years old, I’ve known that I wanted to be a solicitor. It’s always been a dream of mine to work in law and make it a reality. As I got older, I studied law at Huddersfield University which reinforced my desire to pursue a career in the legal sector. When the SQE was introduced, I saw it as the perfect opportunity to take the next step and officially become a solicitor. 

Why did you choose BARBRI for your SQE2 prep? 

I did a lot of research before choosing a course provider. I went through the Solicitors Regulation Authority’s (SRA) website and BARBRI stood out to me because of their flexibility and reputation. What really attracted me was the structured approach that BARBRI offers, along with the ability to adapt the course to fit my lifestyle. I could determine when and how I wanted to study, which was ideal for me. 

Could you share more about your academic background and how the SQE fit into your journey? 

My university introduced a new four-year course that included a master's degree, which aligned perfectly with my educational goals. After finishing the master’s, the SQE was launched, and the timing was just right. I felt ready to pursue the SQE and further my career as a solicitor. 

How did BARBRI’s SQE2 course help you balance your studies and personal life? 

BARBRI’s SQE2 course was incredibly flexible, which allowed me to balance both my studies and personal life. I’m someone who studies better in the morning rather than at night, so the ability to plan my course schedule according to my preferences was a big advantage. The course came with a clear planner that outlined tasks for each day, which made it easier to stay on track and manage my time effectively. 

What was your experience getting support during the course? 

One of the things I really appreciated was the level of support I received throughout. My tutor was always available to help me, no matter the time of day. If I didn’t understand a concept or needed clarification, she would explain things in simpler terms until I grasped the material. I was very grateful for that, as it made a big difference in my confidence and understanding of the subject matter. 

What challenges did you face during your preparation for SQE2? Did BARBRI help you overcome them? 

One of the biggest challenges I faced was time management, especially balancing study with other responsibilities. However, the structure of BARBRI’s course made it easier to manage. The detailed planner helped me stay on track and break down my study into manageable chunks. Additionally, the flexibility of the course helped me avoid feeling overwhelmed and the support from my tutor also played a huge role in overcoming any hurdles I encountered during my preparation. 

What are your plans now that you’ve completed the SQE2? 

After qualifying, I plan to practice as a solicitor and continue learning from my peers and more experienced professionals in the field. My ultimate goal is to become the best solicitor I can be. I want to build a strong foundation of expertise and experience, and over time, I hope to develop my own area of specialisation within the legal profession. 

What advice would you give to someone preparing to take the SQE2? 

Start preparing early and choose a course provider that offers flexibility and support. The SQE journey can be demanding, so it’s important to find a study schedule that works for you and allows you to maintain a good work-life balance. Also, don’t hesitate to seek help when needed. Having a strong support system, like the one BARBRI provided for me, can make all the difference in your success. 

Want to read more inspiring SQE success stories? Check out additional student stories here.