The combination of studying a degree outside of Law (Chemistry) and my background meant that I had no idea how to begin my legal career, or how to ask for advice. I felt that I was putting in vast amounts of work and yet was unsure if I was doing the right thing. STRIVE made a legal career feel achievable and provided a clear, structured path into the field. Although mentoring, networking, and application advice are all available through other programmes, STRIVE is unique in how it brings these resources together. Since joining, I have come to appreciate the personalised guidance that the STRIVE team offer, as well as the support from fellow associates. Whether it is sharing useful articles or proof-reading applications, we have built a community - something many of us had never experienced before.
What I learned from the workshops completely changed how I approached commercial stories, and how I structured my arguments and opinions. I found being able to message the STRIVE team directly asking for help preparing for interviews to be invaluable. Attending events with specific law firms facilitated through STRIVE, I was able to develop a personal link to these firms. This helped me write stronger applications, provide clarity for what type of firm I wanted to apply to, and made me feel part of the legal sector. I do not believe there is any other programme that offers such variety of support. While mentor schemes, talks and networking opportunities, and application advice, are available through a variety of channels; STRIVE is the only programme that combines every tool available to help make their candidates applications as strong as they can be.
