For many aspiring legal professionals, the path to a career in law can seem daunting. However, programmes like Think Law are helping students navigate this journey with confidence. In this blog post, we share the experience of Isobel, a former Monkseaton High School student who is now working at Womble Bond Dickinson, and how Think Law shaped her career decisions.
Finding the Right Path
When asked about her motivation to join Think Law, Isobel’s response was clear: she saw it as an excellent opportunity to gain insights into the legal sector whilst strengthening her CV and building professional connections. As the only student from Monkseaton High School’s sixth form with an interest in law, she took the initiative to apply and participate in the programme independently.
Practical Learning That Makes a Difference
One of the programme’s highlights was the final session held at Newcastle Building Society, which focused on assessment centres. This session proved particularly valuable as it provided not just theoretical knowledge but hands-on experience with typical assessment centre activities. The practical approach gave participants a realistic preview of what to expect in their future career journeys.
Discovering Alternative Routes to Legal Success
Whilst Isobel was already certain about pursuing a legal career before joining Think Law, the programme opened her eyes to different pathways into the profession. Initially believing university was the only route to becoming a lawyer, she discovered the apprenticeship pathway through the programme. Meeting current apprentices and learning about their experiences was transformative, leading Isobel to explore and ultimately choose this alternative path.
“I was initially inspired to apply for a Solicitor Apprenticeship as I knew a career in law was my end goal and the apprenticeship makes this possible at 18,” she explains. “Completing an apprenticeship is such a valuable way to gain experience. I have always enjoyed learning practically and learn best when I am able to apply the knowledge that I have, which doing an apprenticeship allows you to do.”
The Value of Engagement
When asked if she would recommend Think Law to other students, Isobel’s response was an enthusiastic “yes.” She particularly praised the programme’s masterclasses on application writing, interview preparation, and assessment centre techniques.
However, she also shared a crucial piece of advice for future participants: “The most important thing to remember when attending these sessions is that you will only get out of it what you put in. If you don’t take the opportunity to ask questions and engage, you will get much less out of the session than you would if you were to engage and take the opportunity to ask questions to those around you.”
Looking to the Future
Isobel’s journey from Monkseaton High School student to her current position at Womble Bond Dickinson demonstrates the tangible impact of the Think Law programme. Her final piece of wisdom emphasises the networking opportunities these programmes provide: “Use these sessions as a way to network as the people there may well be interviewing you in the future!” This highlights the long-term value of programmes like Think Law in building professional relationships and opening doors to future opportunities.
For students considering a career in law, Think Law offers more than just information—it provides practical experience, networking opportunities, and insights into various career paths that might not be immediately obvious. Through masterclasses, hands-on sessions, and interactions with industry professionals, participants gain valuable tools to help them succeed in their legal career journey, just as Isobel has done.