As a school-leaver with pressure to continue onto higher studies, I began a degree in International Business with Modern Languages. However, after years of studying I decided this was not for me and thought I’d be better off beginning a career and making money to fund my holidays! At this young age I pictured myself working in an office, likely doing marketing or finance work, not once did I picture myself in a law firm.
I found out about a claims handling job with Jackson Boyd’s Uninsured Loss Recovery team through an apprenticeship agency – and the interview was a success. After six months, I found my knack for drafting court papers and dealing with litigated claims. I had a very supportive team and made some great friends, including both trainees and lawyers, and thought, ‘if they can do it, so can I’. So, after three years of working as a claims handler and completing my apprenticeship, I decided to go back to university.
As someone who always hated studying – I never thought I’d see the day I was applying to do a law degree.
As first and second year go, despite the trials of online learning during the pandemic, I was lulled into a false sense of security thinking it wasn’t so hard. I continued working with Jackson Boyd throughout my studies and was fortunate enough to welcome plenty of support and encouragement, particularly during the dreaded dissertation season.
After completing the LLB at Glasgow Caledonian University, I went on to study the Diploma in Professional Legal Practice at the University of Glasgow. I thoroughly enjoyed the practical aspect of the Diploma and look forward to developing these skills in the workplace.
I completed my studies in March this year and commenced my traineeship with Jackson Boyd in July. I am performing my first seat in the EL/PL and Clinical Negligence team where I am enjoying progressing my knowledge in Personal Injury claims.
All the hard work and late nights studying will have been worth it to achieve this full-circle moment, from a young apprentice to a trainee lawyer working towards a career in an industry I’ve found a passion for!
