Progressing to Post Grad - My Law Career

Posted on: 20 January 2023 by Samantha Riella in Graduate stories

Annie Hesford is a class of 2021 Law LLB graduate, who is now working at Weightmans LLP and studying at the University of Law.

How did you find out about the role?

Connections who knew I was looking for a paralegal role advised me to take a look at Weightmans to see if they had any vacancies and to my delight they were advertising a role of paralegal.

How did you get to where you are now?

With all honesty, I didn’t always want to pursue a career in law. It’s something I fell into following my A Levels. Initially I wanted to go to university to study veterinary, however, I fell out of love with sciences during my A Levels and needed to explore other options. I was looking for courses that did not require specific A Levels in order to apply. My A Levels were heavily influenced by science so when I discovered I could attend the University of Liverpool to study law with Biology, Chemistry and Spanish, I was thrilled. It was there that I discovered I had definitely found the right path and direction for my future career. Once at university, I realised that I wanted to pursue a career as a solicitor. After lots of hard work and fun, 3 years later, I graduated with my degree.

What has been your best experience as part of your role?

My favourite experience so far is definitely the feeling of satisfaction that comes with my day to day duties. Prior to graduation, I had only ever had a part time job behind a bar, I didn’t understand the sense of satisfaction that would come with a full time job within an area that would allow me to feel so fulfilled. I also appreciate the way in which my role makes me feel like what I am doing is making a difference and is meaningful, allowing me to put everything I have learnt throughout my degree into practice.

What has been the most challenging part of your graduate journey?

The most challenging part of my graduate journey is the rejection that one encounters when applying for jobs. I was very lucky as my interview at Weightmans was only my second interview post graduation. However, as an aspiring solicitor, training contract applications are something I will have to tackle and it is inevitable that I will receive a lot of rejection before I am successful. Further to this, I find it very difficult to balance my time when studying my LPC and masters alongside working full time. Sometimes, juggling the two really does take its toll and that’s when I have to draw upon my skills of time management and really appreciate what needs to be prioritised. Sometimes this is studying during my evenings, other times, it’s taking the night off and doing something I enjoy.

What are your top three tips for other students and graduates?

  1. Don’t be so hard on yourself - give yourself credit for your achievements and don’t let setbacks have an effect on you.

  2. Use LinkedIn to its fullest - take advantage of all LinkedIn has to offer. Connect with as many people as you like and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Best way to learn is from people who have experienced what you are going through.

  3. Always take time for yourself - you will never produce your best work when you’re heart is not in it or you’re tired. Whether that be within your working day or applying for a job, it is so important to take time for yourself to unwind so that you are equipped to do your best work when you need to.