Why did you decide to take a placement year?
I was unsure whether I wanted my career to be within an active law firm or a more behind the scenes role. I believed the best way to do this was to try it out for a year and then decide. Luckily I really enjoyed my experience and it has certainly given me a good idea as to my future career path.
How did you find the placement search/the support on offer?
The placement search page was useful to be able to see what type of roles were on offer, even when applying speculatively I was able to see what law firms were generally looking for and then tailor my application to a specific firm afterwards. The support from the placement team was very valuable and I had multiple meetings to amend my CV until it was to a suitable standard. I also had a master CV which I would adapt to tailor to specific applications.
Why switch to speculative applications?
Personally, I wanted to be working close to home and there was limited roles available. Therefore I approached some law firms closer to home which could offer similar experiences to the South East firms and sent out several, speculative applications.
Describe your company/your role, what you learnt, skills developed, highlights of your placement
I undertook my placement year at Bright Solicitors, a law firm who adopt a ‘modern legal thinking’ approach. I was a legal assistant within the New Homes team which focused on acting for the purchasers for the conveyancing of New Build properties. I assisted two other Fee Earners within the team and was able to apply my knowledge from my Second year Land Law module.
I further developed my communication skills via telephone and email by corresponding with both clients and developers. A couple of highlights from my placement include being able to draft title reports which are large legal documents independently and being taken to a day at the Exeter Race Course by one of our search providers and learning about their services whilst having a great time!
How did your studies support your placement year?
I was able to apply my Land Law knowledge and also Contract Law knowledge. I was also able to expand on these areas of the law which is very valuable. I also believe it has set me up well for my final year return with this additional knowledge and from being surrounded by many experienced lawyers and applying everything within a practical setting.
How was your placement overall?
I had no idea what to expect going into my placement, however any expectations I did have were certainly exceeded, I was very well looked after, taught by my colleagues and welcomed as if I were a permanent employee despite only having a one year timeframe I was given equal opportunity throughout which I was very grateful for.
How are you finding Uni now that you have returned from placement? Has it supported your final year of studies?
I have enjoyed returning to uni for final year and have not found the transition back to legal writing as difficult as I initially anticipated. I have also enjoyed catching up with other fellow placement peers.
Were you offered a grad role?
Whilst I wasn’t offered one directly, I will be applying early 2024 to return and have been encouraged to apply by certain members of the firm which is positive.
Any advice to second year students when searching for a placement?
Keep a record of what you have applied for and who you have corresponded with within the companies you approach. I had a colour coded spreadsheet with all this information on and it's a great reminder when applying. Please also do not get disheartened when you get rejected or even sometimes ignored!
What would you say to any student considering doing a placement?
If you are considering a placement and are not 100% sure of the career path you would like to take after Uni, I would definitely recommend taking a placement opportunity even if it is to work out what you like/ do not like about the industry you are working within. You will certainly learn something positive about yourself by undertaking this process.
