Louise Ra

Profile:

My route into law has taken a slightly different direction compared to the traditional route. I graduated in 2012 with a law degree from the University of Birmingham. I was slightly unsure at this stage as where I wanted my career to go. I was the first person in my family to go to university and I did not have a role model within the legal sector who could provide that career guidance and support, most of all I was lacking in confidence. I spent a year as a paralegal and applied for both training contracts and graduate schemes. After a long recruitment process, I was successful in obtaining a leadership graduate scheme with the John Lewis Partnership where I spent an amazing 9 years gaining exposure to the retail industry. I undertook several roles, including leading large departments and teams, and managing significant commercial contracts.

I always had a feeling that my career would take me back to law and was keen to see what was possible. I started studying for the LPC and applying for training contracts. I was successful in obtaining a training contract with Addleshaw Goddard. During the wait for my training contract, I had two children, both 14 months apart. I started my training contract with my son being 2 and my daughter just turning 1. I would be lying to say it hasn’t been challenging, raising two very young children, becoming a trainee, and navigating the complexities of parenthood and trainee life!

I am keen to share my experiences and support anyone who questions whether they “can do it”; if they are a parent/ wanting to become a parent, as well as supporting those seeking a career change, or individuals lacking that confidence/ direction to pursue their ambitions.

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