My Advice for Summer Work Experience and CV building

Hiya! I want to share how I have grown my CV and tips as a law student to help gain legal experience. London is one of the most competitive job markets in the world, and a lot of the best of the best live and work here. As a student, that can feel intimidating—especially as an international student with visas and the Home Office always looming in the background. Here are some tips I’ve found helpful:

1. Find a Mentor

   I was really lucky a cousin of mine knew of an attorney who left, moved to London and began practicing. She was able to connect us and I have gained a ton of experience just from helping her on her caseload but also by being introduced to other barristers and solicitors. I’d also recommend finding a mentor who’s just a few years ahead of you. Having someone nearly qualified or newly in practice can help keep you grounded. For example, I was connected with a paralegal starting her pupillage soon, and she’s been great at reminding me to set boundaries, take care of myself, and accept that what I’m doing is enough. I think in the legal field as I imagine other professions as well there is this mentality that you must have the degree and then 2 years of experience upon graduating to secure the job...which for most is impossible. We are really entering into a job market and an economy that really isn't for young people which can be discouraging. Having one mentor with decades of experience and another just starting out has been invaluable.

2. Send the email

   This may sound simple, but it’s worth repeating: send the email. I received my summer vacation scheme at a law firm because I had emailed and asked if I could shadow in the office and in court. To my surprise, they asked for my CV and said yes, but I wouldn't have known unless I sent the email. I don't know if this is a shared experience but I often worry because I am so new I can't contribute and I would say thats not true. I’ve never shadowed a barrister or solicitor and felt like I didn’t add value or learn something. People often want to help the next generation—you just have to reach out. So send the email, ask the question, and make your presence known. Someone will say yes.

3. Attend networking events

   For some people this probably sounds like hell on earth..I don't know many people who love networking events. I am a HUGE extrovert and there are times where standing in a room with strangers makes me want to cry..(and I love talking to people). But I would recommend that you go to one monthly and you cannot leave until you’ve had a real conversation with at least three people. You can't get over something or get better unless you practice. I have found opportunities within CPS, child law, immigration, some leading to job offers, all from networking.

4. The line between being proactive and annoying

   This is something I’m still learning, but it’s especially valuable for Americans working in the UK. Let me hold your hand when I say this: you are not in America anymore. When the work day ends..it ends. So when you send an email at 7:35 pm and don't get a response at 7:45pm..respect that. As an American I have been conditioned to expect constant replies, trust me it is sooooo frustrating when you start, per my last email but that is how the system is. I think the UK has really strong boundaries of what is being proactive and good at your job and what is annoying and disturbing to people. I have to remind myself is this email going to be helpful or will it just piss off the receiver and get me no where..I think the faster I learn this the better off I will be

5. Lastly have fun

   If you aren't enjoying the work that you are doing make a change. Your summers as a student are valuable and, eventually there will be no summer holiday. So however you choose to spend them enjoy them! While I packed mine full of work and court time I loved the work so it never felt too much of a chore. But I also prioritized fun —girls’ nights, dinners out, coffee catch-ups, runs, and trips that gave me space to relax. Balance is key!!

   That is what I found to be helpful if there are questions or comments drop them in the chat and I would love to help where I can!

   -Wilbur