My diversity networks
Profile:
I am currently undertaking the GDL at Nottingham Law School and commenced my training contract with Gowling WLG in September 2017. I graduated from Newcastle University with an undergraduate degree in Geography and a postgraduate degree in International Law.
I’d originally been interested in international criminal and public international law. It was only at the end of my postgraduate degree in September 2013 that I realised that commercial law was the career for me. However, without access to a careers service I was slow to make progress. Thinking that 1 week’s regional firm experience would be enough to show my commitment to international commercial law, I submitted numerous applications but received blanket rejections.
By this point I was working in a surf shop in Cornwall – a long way from the city! I was also reliant on obtaining funding to commence the GDL. In the long 2 years between graduation and securing a training contract I made many mistakes, due in part to inexperience and the feeling that city law firms were a completely alien world to me. Professional careers like law were seldom discussed at my school so organisations like Aspiring Solicitors have been vitally important in helping me to achieve my goal.
Through Professional Ambassadors I aim to help anyone who might be in a similar situation. There’s always more you can do to improve your chances so please get in touch with any questions – I’d be more than happy to help. I also currently work for a legal recruitment consultancy which has been a unique insight into the ‘other side’. Please also get in touch for any help with CVs and application forms as we see the same mistakes on a regular basis, even from partners!
