So as a Law student (and pretty much for any degree discipline!), while a 2:1 or a First may look impressive, it’s the extracurricular opportunities and things beyond your degree discipline which will make you stand out to employers from other equally academic candidates. I’d highly recommend taking on at least one extra thing each academic year; here are some of the many things you can do at the university itself:
Law Society opportunities: If there’s one society you should join as a Law student, the law society is a great place to start. For first years in particular, the first-year mentoring scheme is a great way to boost your confidence in the subject through gaining support from 2nd and 3rd year student mentors. Look out for other opportunities including law related talks such as for commercial awareness, as well as social events!
Mooting: This is where you prepare for and argue a fictitious case in a mock court, against an opposing team. It is an excellent experience to take part in, regardless of whether you wish to become a barrister or not as the skills you take from it such as legal research and advocacy are invaluable. For first years/first time participants, there is the speed mooting and junior mooting competitions which involve first year law modules. Often the prizes involve legal work experience!
Pro Bono Work: The Pro Bono Society, Pro Bono meaning ‘For the public good’, is a great opportunity to undertake voluntary legal work for real life cases. There are a wide variety to choose from, from Lawyers Without Borders and Miscarriages of Justice, which are more research based, to projects like Litigants in Person where you assist individuals who cannot afford legal services in Leicester County Court.
Others: There are lots of other useful events and opportunities which take place at certain times during campus, such as events put on by different brand ambassadors at the university representing things like law firms, University of Law and Aspiring Solicitors, which provides commercial legal opportunities for groups underrepresented in the legal profession.
There is also the Festival of Careers, where dozens of different employers are all in one place for you to explore, as well as specific fairs such as the Go Abroad Fair, and crucially, the Law Fair, where lots of firms, including some of the top national and international law firms attend. These are all set to take place this month, so keep an eye out and come prepared!
Regardless of whether you are in college or well into your degree, I’d highly recommend thinking about taking on some of these fantastic opportunities available for a CV boost and chance to improve key skills for your future career path!
I hope this was useful; let me know if there’s anything you take part in not mentioned here! 🙂
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