James Marshall
Des Voeux Chambers Scholarship
Des Voeux Chambers 2020-21 Scholar James Marshall
College: Christ Church
I studied the BA in Jurisprudence at Christ Church, particularly enjoying the private law subjects, especially the Roman and Personal Property options. This is a focus I have carried through onto the BCL. I went to a comprehensive school in Stevenage.
Could you tell us about your journey to Oxford? Why did you choose to study at the Law Faculty?
I chose to study at the Oxford Law Faculty for the BCL, because this is the heart of private law academia. It is truly exciting to be part of the intellectual journey of the academics who are at the forefront of shaping the most important intellectual debates in this area.
What do you hope to achieve whilst studying law in Oxford?
Whilst studying law in Oxford, I hope to further my depth of knowledge of private law, and at the same time broaden my appreciation for the subject.
What have you found most rewarding about your programme so far?
It is amazing to listen to the top academics in the field battle out their ideas against each other, and then to be able to offer something of your own to that battle!
What have you found most challenging about your programme so far?
The BCL undoubtedly has a very demanding workload and so trying to keep on top of that, whilst at the same time maintaining some level of sanity, can be a challenge – but an exciting challenge!
Are you involved with or joined any projects or societies?
I am a part of the Christ Church mooting team, and where it was possible in between lockdowns, I played tennis with the Oxford University Lawn Tennis Club.
How has the scholarship benefitted your studies and professional development?
Without the scholarship I would not have been able to undertake the BCL and for that I am immensely grateful.
Through the generosity of Des Voeux Chambers, this scholarship is worth £10,000 and is awarded annually to students embarking on the BCL, MJur or one year research degree (including one year of the DPhil). Available to UK , EU, and overseas students alike, this scholarship is for students with an interest in proceeding to the bar.