I am currently enrolled at the University of Exeter, and as part of the third year of my LLB Law with Professional Placement degree, I am undertaking a placement year as a Paralegal with Michelmores in the Private Property and Landed Estates team.
I chose to do a placement year as I believed it would be a particularly valuable experience, both for my personal learning and development, but also to help differentiate myself from other candidates going forward in my career. It has served as a great opportunity to put the theory I have learnt within my degree into practice, and to develop the essential skills necessary for practicing as a solicitor.
I have learnt a lot and achieved so much from the experience so far, including how to organise myself effectively to balance competing priorities, significantly developing my written and verbal communication skills, and building upon my legal knowledge and ability to use research tools such as Lexis+.
Some top tips I would give to future applicants include ensuring that there is a mutual fit between yourself and the firm, by assessing how well your values and goals align with theirs. Additionally, I would suggest attending as many open days, insight events and careers fairs as you possibly can; each will be valuable in helping to substantiate your interest in the firm and support your application. Lastly, be yourself and make sure to draw on your strengths and extra-curriculars, this will showcase your individuality and commitment to a career in law.