Hi all
I am currently on a LLB course at a Russell Group University. I achieve decent grades, I have decent work experience (though not in a practice environment, but relatable experience) and extra curricular activities, as well as being disabled and have four children. (I am a mature student, who originally took the course as I have an interest in it).
However I feel all the advice I get is unrealistic. Its either shiny happy, 'click your heels three times and your dreams will come true' type advice, or depressingly negative (which I take to be more accurate but is of the 'give up now and go home' type).
I don't know what I want to do at the end of this degree. I am not sure I want to practice and I'm not sure what else I want to do. I go to careers fairs, and other events to talk to employers, but I sometimes feel that because university staff and senior staff are there, I don't get a realistic response to some of my questions. I would love to buy someone in the field a coffee and have an off the record no hold bars type conversation, but it seems impossible as I don't know any solicitors socially.
I have recently recovered from a serious illness, and just want to rebuild and better my life. During my time in hospital I swore that I would recover and build a career I could be proud of. I refuse to be defined by my illness. I have a supportive DH and my children are older, and I want to build a career. Albeit it from scratch. I just need help from women that have been there.
I have spoken to my careers advisor and felt the advice I got was very vague. I have listed my strengths and weaknesses, have made action plans on how to overcome my weaknesses, and am trying to think of ways in which professionally I would be attractive to perspective employers.
If anyone can give me some advice on the following I would be so grateful:
-Networking - any tips on where to start and how to go about it. What puts you off when people approach you and what do you find particularly impressive?
-What do you look for on cover letters and C.Vs. What would put a C.V straight into the rubbish bin? Any tips for interviews? What kind of experience stands out?
- Can anyone in the field give me a realistic insight into the industry? What are some of the biggest challenges you as solicitors are facing? What do you find challenging about your job?
- A few of the people I have spoken to said commercial awareness is really important, so I spend time researching this. Can anyone give any advice in this area?
- Any general advice about training, and building a career. I saw a thread about a nightmare intern and watched it with interest. I am desperate to impress and build something tangible with my career but would really appreciate some advice from people who have been there.
I am fully aware some careers in law are the holy grail therefore am looking into alternatives with a law degree. However if any advice that can be given would be appreciated. Even if it is outside of law, but any advice from people who hire graduates or work with them would be much appreciated.