Why did you decide to study law at Bristol?

I went to visit several Universities on the lead up to applying to Bristol. However, for me, walking into Wills was very much a love at first sight feeling. I was completely taken aback by the beauty of the building and instantly had a feel for the atmosphere of the City. It’s vibrant, friendly, and beautiful. I think it was always really important for me to know I would enjoy being wherever I ended up for University; rankings are one thing, but I couldn't have got through a degree somewhere I didn't feel suited me. Bristol didn't disappoint, and I think it’s the kind of city that has a place for everyone.

I also looked into the status of some of the lecturers on the LLB law course and thought the compilation of amazing minds was incomparable to many other universities teaching law. It’s pretty special being lectured and tutored on tribunal fees by the person who made their abolishment possible!

What have you found most inspiring during your time at the University of Bristol?

I think once again it has been the people I have been able to meet and the aspirations they've sparked in me to strive for the best and do well. I have had the pleasure of meeting some extremely inspirational individuals, including my tutor and the director of our University Law Clinic amongst many others. Seeing passion and intelligence of that level definitely gives you a real bar to aspire to meet. Furthermore, being told you can do something when you’re having a moment of doubt by such standard of people is a confidence boost beyond anything I have ever experienced before. I am certain I wouldn't have believed in myself as much if it weren’t for people like this I have met along the three years.

What has been the biggest challenge you have faced while studying?

I think for me it was getting used to occasionally not meeting your own expectations. To be at UoB you have to be an intelligent person. I think I took doing well for granted, so when I was hit with new structures and marking schemes at University and got a few bad grades back having thought a piece of work was my best, it knocked me for six a couple of times. I have just learnt that the support systems and feedback meetings in place are so helpful and it’s important to not let one bad grade reflect in your attitude towards the rest of what you’re doing.

Congratulations on securing your Training Contract with Macfarlanes! What was the application process like?

Thank you! I have actually gone through the application process at Macfarlanes twice. I got an interview for a vacation scheme in second year and was rejected, so re-applied for a straight TC in third year (which definitely means you shouldn't ever give up at the first hurdle with these things). The process was strenuous as you can imagine, as they need to know you're ready to start at entry level. I think my experience on a vac scheme in the summer helped, but was by no means fundamental. I had to partake in a series of task including a written exercise, presentation/group exercise, a commercial awareness interview and CV interview. I think if I could say anything helpful it would be that they actually want to get to know you and see who you are as a person, they aren’t trying to trick you, so just be yourself!

What are your plans for the future, where do you see yourself once you have completed the Training Contract?

I see myself working for Macfarlanes for a long time. Much as I said with University, I would never have wanted to work in a firm which didn't suit me as a person. The moment I walked into Macfarlanes I was met with smiles and greetings which are often missing in some of the bigger city firms. As far as my ultimate aspiration – the sky is the limit. Who knows, you may see my name on the partner list in 10 years time.

What advice would you give to students starting out at Bristol?

Throw yourself into whatever possible and don't limit yourself to your accommodation. My main regret was depending on the people I met within the first week or two. I found I became happier and happier the more people I met and the bigger my social net became, variation is so important when you’re living with people. Being social and putting yourself out there is nerve-wracking, and is definitely out of most people’s comfort zone, but a city can be a big place and the more people you know the more at home you feel. Also, I think fundamentally grades and work are important… but have fun. Strike a balance and enjoy yourself, three years have never gone by so quickly.