In order to secure a training contract, I tried to get as much experience as

possible. I spent some time at a firm but also worked in an in-house legal

department.It seems an obvious thing to say but my work experience really

helped me to decidewhat type of law I was interested in. When I found

something particularly interesting, I went away and found out more about it.

In interviews, I could then talk about what I had found out and why I was

drawn to that area. Not only did this improve my own knowledge but it also

helped to show that I had genuinely taken an interest in certain areas of

practice.

I also tried to look beyond legal work experience, though. I was on the Committee

of an academic society at university, which led to many different opportunities

both inside and outside the university environment. These included setting up a

university-wide workshop, running after-school classes at my old school and

presenting a seminar on behalf of a multi-national organisation. Seizing these

opportunities is something I’m very glad I did and I believe they added some depth

to my CV! The knowledge and practical skills that can be gained from any

activities like this will certainly help in the future.

I think it’s also important to show that you have a life outside work and that you’re

not just a robot. Although life as a solicitor will involve plenty of late nights, I’ve

always tried to get involved in what could be called ‘recreational’ activities.

I took up rowing while doing the LPC and have played football for many years.

It doesn’t have to be something sporty, though! In addition, it will do you no harm

if you can show that you’ve taken a leadership/ organisational role in the context

of one of these activities.

If I could give one piece of advice, it would be to realise when you’ve made a

mistake. Recognising that you didn’t approach something from the right angle

and then knowing how to put it right is, I would say, an invaluable and

under-appreciated skill. While it is obviously vital to be able to support your

own arguments and not give in too easily, it is just as important to work out

how you could change or adapt your approach to produce a better result.

I think it’s always helpful to review what you’re doing so that you can find

ways to improve whatever you’re working on!