Ella, Law student, applied to the Career Mentor Scheme to receive advice on working at a law firm outside of the City. She was interested in learning about applications into the profession and making herself stand out. Through the scheme, Ella was matched with a Law graduate from the University of Exeter who is now a Solicitor at Trowers & Hamlins LLP with much experience in Private Wealth.

Ella tells us more about her experience below:

What objectives did you achieve?

Ella achieved all of her objectives including:

• Increased knowledge of effective interview techniques in this sector
• Improved knowledge of further education and professional courses related to this sector
• Increased knowledge of sector entry requirements

Ella also achieved some personal objectives of experiencing mock interviews, improving commercial awareness and help reviewing applications.

What were your highlights of the scheme?

• I met up with my Mentor over coffee at least once a month
• I had 2 mock interviews with various trainees and partners

What did you find most useful from the mentoring experience?

• Mock interviews for Paralegal role and training contract
• Meeting other partners in the firm that my Mentor worked for and listening to their advice
• Having my mentor help me with my CV

What message would you give to a student thinking of applying for the Career Mentor Scheme?

This is such a good opportunity which gives you confidence with applications and interviews. I found it to be a positive experience; my mentor was so encouraging, giving me her experience and tips. In law it is so easy to get disheartened, but my mentor helped me to stay positive. She has given me a lot of good career advice. It is definitely worth doing – I have already had successful applications after the scheme.