Olivia

STUDIED: Law, Psychology And Sociology A Levels 

FORMER SCHOOL: Broadoak Academy 

I was unsure what career I wanted to go into, so I chose wide subjects that I was interested in. I listened to many guest lecturers talk about their own professional journeys in those areas – that helped me decide on a career in Law.  

As part of Weston College’s Career Excellence Hub at the Sixth Form I was offered the chance to go on a trip to London and take a tour of the Royal Court of Justice. We were told about the history of the court and the type of cases that are heard there. I also benefited from a visit to the Old Bailey, where I got to listen in on a court case. 

I carried out work experience for various law firms including Kennedys, Allen and Overy, and Leo Cussen. We used an online system which gave us real-life tasks such as writing a letter summarising a case, collating information from an interview, or creating profiles for witnesses. Carrying out work experience for different areas of law like family, commercial and company law helped me consider which area I would like to pursue a career in.  

The guest barristers that have visited us helped me narrow down my career pathways too. One guest lecturer we had is a prosecution lawyer in the criminal field. He answered lots of questions about what the industry is like and what happens in the kind of cases he takes on.  

 I am now contemplating a career in either criminal law or commercial law. I intend to gain a law degree at university and become a barrister, ultimately starting my own law firm. My tutors have taught me well and supported me in setting goals at every stage. I now feel excited for my next steps.