What comes to mind when the word ‘law’ is mentioned? Or perhaps ‘barrister’, or even ‘court’? Many picture brutal, mega-rich, devilishly cunning figures in tuxedos, aided by influence of huge TV shows like Suits – yet this simply is not the case.
This Tuesday, myself and a whopping 4600 other students were invited to a webinar from Browne Jacobson LLP and Young Professionals, to learn vital details about the process and pathways to careers in law. Through a group of highly experienced and informative speakers, all attendees left with invaluable lessons and advice to carry them forwards.
Perhaps the most striking speaker was Baroness Hale, former president of the UK Supreme Court: we heard about her unlikely journey from being born in a small village in Yorkshire to achieving such a respected and significant position in the UK legal system, and we also listened to the obstacles she overcame, as 1 of 6 women in a Cambridge University class with 110 men. It is safe to say that Lady Hale left a lasting impression upon all listeners, with strong messages of bravery and willingness to overcome assumption and prejudice - truly an inspirational story.
Following this, from a more practical sense, there was some extremely useful information imparted upon us by practising barristers (Katy Handley and Alex Taylor) and others employed in the law; for example, the significant change from the LPC (Legal Practice Course) to the SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Examination) to qualify as a solicitor, through which we were guided through by two SQE trainees.
The importance of personal brand was usefully emphasised to us, and the exciting reality of corporate law was presented by Richard Medd, partner at Browne Jacobson. All in all it was a real eye-opener for young aspiring students into the world of law, and I cannot thank the Young Professionals team and Browne Jacobson for the opportunity. The legal world is not full of ‘Harvey Specter’s, and this priceless experience reminded us of just that.
