Amanda F

BPP university alumni

My Law Firm

Profile:

I come from a low-income family, based in South East London, where I was state school educated. I completed my LLB at the University of Manchester and the LPC at BPP. I started my training contract with DACB in September 2019.

Self-doubt stemming from my background and the disadvantage I was always told I would face due to it, acted as a barrier to gaining the success I wanted. I often felt discouraged from pursuing a career in Law. This was somewhat due to the lack of diversity apparent in Law firms. Moreover, the lack of support which comes with being of the first generation to go to university was a significant barrier to me gaining sufficient legal experience and guidance. I found that I was approaching applications for Training Contracts in the wrong way, only thanks to a contact a friend had. We don’t all have similar friends so feel free to email me if you need help on what law firms actually want to see in your application.

Additionally, my own personal confidence was a great barrier to pursing a legal career. As a female from an ethnic minority background we are often described by the words “disadvantaged” and “minority”. I found that I had internalised these descriptions over the years. It wasn’t until I was told by a fellow black female Trainee Solicitor to view my background as an advantage that I became more confident in who I am. Your diverse background does not negatively define you. Rather, it is a strength which is cherished by firms today.

Feel free to email me for guidance in applying for Vacation Schemes and Training Contracts. I am more than happy to answer any questions you may have.

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