Ashley R

Profile:

As the first generation in my family to attend university and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community with a state school background, I wanted to join a firm that prided itself on its commitment to diversity and inclusion. For me, diversity means recognising and understanding the unique characteristics of all individuals, whilst inclusion represents the positive action required to ensure that all those within a diverse environment feel welcomed, valued and safe.

With the help of Aspiring Solicitors’ Springboard programmes and open days at various firms around the City, I received constructive feedback and was able to liaise with a multitude of different firms in order to determine the right fit for me. In 2016 I was selected to attend an Aspiring Solicitors’ open day at Bircham Dyson Bell LLP (now, BDB Pitmans LLP) which consequently led to a vacation scheme offer and a training contract offer.

Four years on and I have recently completed my training contract at BDB Pitmans LLP and started as a Corporate solicitor at the firm. During this time I have become a member of Best Self, the firm’s internal LGBT+ network, and become more involved with the firm’s wider LGBT+ network, Legal Best.

I consider Aspiring Solicitors to have been instrumental in my future success as a solicitor in London, with their support and advice not only building my confidence but also making me more knowledgeable of what I want from my legal career and the firms that can offer what I am looking for.

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