My diversity networks

State School Educated
First Generation to go to University

Profile:

I graduated from the University of Exeter in 2017 before working at Osborne Clarke in Bristol. I secured my training contract with Jones Day in the summer of 2018 and began my training in September 2020.

I attended a state school and I am the first generation in my family to go to university. Before going to Exeter, I had no understanding of the role of a commercial solicitor. I was very fortunate in that Exeter is really active in inviting firms onto campus, however I did not truly appreciate the importance of attending these events and did not utilise them fully until my final year. I participated in a career mentorship scheme, which although was useful in explaining the training system to me, I was told that the city firms I was interested in were unlikely to accept me. Discovering Aspiring Solicitors gave me the confidence to continue with my applications and showed me that whilst competitive, the process is completely open to everyone regardless of their background. Their insight and support helped me to obtain vacation schemes at large international firms and was invaluable in securing my training contract.

After graduating, I sought work experience in a law firm and secured a Receptionist role at Osborne Clarke. I was repeatedly asked about my work experience during interviews and the insight into an international law firm hugely developed my commercial awareness. I continued to attend law firm presentations and I would recommend this hugely to anyone pursuing a career in law. Attending Jones Day’s event in Bristol and learning first hand how greatly the firm values and encourages diversity confirmed that it was the firm I wanted to train with. Finding Aspiring Solicitors during this time offered me the support and encouragement to succeed in my application. Receiving interview advice, attending the HeadStart into Vacation Scheme event and meeting members who had successfully gone through the process was hugely inspiring and I would be more than happy to help other aspiring solicitors in any way possible.

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