Opportunities?

[lawyersum]

Hi everyone,

Some of you may have seen me on the vac scheme forum, but I decided to make a new thread with a different kind of post. I graduated with a first-class law degree in July 2024. I have a journal publication as well. This is my second application cycle, and I am targeting vac schemes. My main issue is work experience!! While I accumulated lots of extracurriculars, volunteering, and even marketing/events planning roles during uni, I am now struggling in the graduate job market. When I say 'graduate job market' - I'm not solely referring to vac schemes/TCs, I am also referring to ANY type of role e.g paralegal, legal assistant, or even retail. I've even submitted a few applications to legal advice centres, but have received no answer. Reaching out on LinkedIn has been futile as well. I hate the feeling of being unemployed so I need a job for at least some fulfilment and to demonstrate work ethic while I apply to vac schemes.

So, anyone, if you have any opportunity going or know someone who needs admin support/paralegal support/ any support in any capacity (it doesn't even have to be legal) - please feel free to DM me or let me know, and then I can exchange personal details accordingly. I realise I am essentially begging here, but it has gotten to this point, unfortunately. Thank you all, and your general advice on this matter is also appreciated.

 

[Amma Usman]

Hi @lawyersum

First off, I just want to say how much I admire your determination and honesty in sharing your journey. The job market can feel overwhelming, and it’s clear you’ve been putting in significant effort to secure opportunities. You’ve already achieved so much – a first-class degree and a journal publication are incredible accomplishments, and they reflect your intelligence and hard work. Please don’t feel disheartened; sometimes, it’s just about finding the right alignment at the right time.

1. Broaden Your Application Scope: While targeting paralegal and legal assistant roles, also consider applying for compliance, contract management, or administrative roles in industries like finance, tech, or consulting. These can give you transferable skills that law firms value.

2. Leverage Agencies: Legal recruitment agencies like Michael Page, Hays, and Reed often have temporary or short-term roles that can provide immediate work experience while keeping you flexible for vac scheme applications. The Law Society Gazette also has lots of paralegal vacancies.

3. Upskill Through Volunteering: You could also consider joining online pro bono initiatives like LawWorks or Amicus. These can be done remotely and offer valuable experience.

4. Tap into Alumni Networks: Reach out to your university’s careers service or alumni network. Many alumni are willing to provide informal mentoring or know of openings that aren’t advertised.

 

[lawyersum]

Thank you Amma for your words of motivation and advice, it really helped. Have redone my CV today and will start applying for roles again