Living in a world that is constantly faced with global challenges demands an open mind that is flexible, able to comprehend as many subject matters as possible, and to integrate parts of each into the study of the others. In that sense, with this article I would like to highlight why I think the Honours College is a great opportunity offered by the university for motivated (law) students who would like to develop their abilities and obtain a holistic understanding of the most fundamental challenges.

What is the Honours College and what does it entail?

The Honours College has three programmes: the Bachelor programme, the Master's Honours 'Leadership: making the difference!' programme, and the Master's Honours 'High Tech Systems and Materials' programme. As a bachelor student, I will continue with describing the corresponding programme. What is important to mention is that it is complementary to a regular degree programme, and it lasts for a period of 2.5 years. Moreover, at the end of the programme you will receive 45 extra ECTS.

The structure of the Bachelor programme is split into two main parts: the deepening part, and the broadening part. The deepening part is provided by the Faculty of Law and focuses on advancing the knowledge in the field of law, by discussing in detail relevant and/or recent topics. The broadening part is centered around the interdisciplinary aspect, as you look at topics beyond your discipline. The courses of this module are not related to your own degree. In this way, I managed to learn how to conduct an in-depth analysis based on knowledge obtained from multiple subjects.

How can you be admitted in the Honours Programme?

As the name already discloses, the programme is selective in the sense that there is a fixed number of admitted students (around 350 students from all the faculties). Based on your grades, you may receive an invitation to apply; however, the application procedure is the same for everyone, meaning that all applicants have to submit a CV and a motivational letter, together with your transcripts. After the application file submission, you might be asked for an interview. What is important to understand is that getting admitted into this programme is based on a combination of your motivation, your grades, and your own input into the course. My personal advice is that if you consider your grades to not be that 'good', but you have the motivation for the Honours College, you should still definitely try applying.

How would I describe my own experience with the Honours College?

I would say that my participation in the Honours College is a remarkably good experience, which allows me to build a personal network comprised of involved people and to follow courses that challenge me by opening my mind to new perspectives. Not only have I become more open minded, but the programme developed my flexibility and capacity to incorporate parts of different subjects into harmonized solutions and points of view. I truly consider this ideal for every motivated student who wants to make a contribution based on their knowledge.

On a concluding note, I choose to believe that law is the power behind a functioning society, but it is the discovery of interdisciplinary solutions, together with skills such as flexibility and creativity, that emphasize the potential in ambitious law students.

- Larisa Bularca, Romania, International and European Law student

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