Pathways students

Alex

National Cohort 8, Exeter Cohort 2 [2014-2016]

When I look back at the Pathways to Law programme, which I started some two years ago, I am astounded by what I have accomplished. Every few weeks I would visit the University of Exeter, where I would get involved in fascinating lectures and workshops surrounding all areas of law. I have met world class lawyers, many of whom came from the City’s Inner Circle. Furthermore I have been able to ask them about their experiences, and find out exactly what they do for a living. This opportunity to network with such esteemed individuals was a grand opportunity, as I did not just ask questions, but exchanged contact details, opening me up to job opportunities. With the Sutton Trust behind me, it was no hassle finding work experience at a law firm; I was fortunate enough to have attained a summer position at ‘Trowers and Hamlins’, who specialised in international property law. There I familiarised myself with a business environment and developed experience in a number of new fields, including construction, regeneration and social housing. There was no photocopying and no tea making to be done; I could become heavily involved in professional work, writing emails to clients, analysing deeds, and sitting in on negotiations.

Then, on the Warwick University residential, I could put the skills I learned into practice, by participating in my own debates and negotiations on big issues in the legal world. This exciting trip introduced me to lecturers, lawyers and other Pathways students from up and down the country. There would be seminars, there would be workshops, but there would also be time to unwind, with themed event such as karaoke or sports, a cinema night and gala dinner being just a few of the attractions. The residential gave me a real taste of campus life, whilst the trips to various universities, and the Pathways university fair, were certainly contributing factors to my UCAS applications that autumn. I leave Pathways with a closely knit group of friends, an appreciable number of business contacts, and a substantial degree of experience in the legal field. This should equip me not just for my courses in Law and Politics at university, but also for my plans to enter the legal profession in later life.

Alex completed his GCSE’s and A level’s at The Blandford School in Dorset.