Aaron Clark; 2024 Diploma in Professional Legal Practice Graduate
Can you tell us your plans after graduating from the Diploma in Professional Practice at the University of Glasgow?
I have got a new job as a legal assistant in a firm with a children’s, family, criminal and immigration practice. I am going to start a traineeship with them next month. I hope to gain experience as a court practitioner in all the firm’s practice areas. I plan to train with this firm and then possibly specialise in one of their practice areas when I qualify.
How did the activities you underwent on the Diploma contribute to building employability skills? Did you participate in any competitions or external events?
They contributed massively. I participated in the international client consultation competition which gave me great experience interviewing difficult clients. It pushed me out of my comfort zone. The feedback I got from the judges has been so valuable to me in my new job about manner, use of language and managing expectations. I also volunteered for the Citizen's Advice Bureau within HMP Barlinnie. This opportunity arose through the diploma team and gave me great experience interviewing clients in a challenging environment. It gave me the confidence I have now to interview clients in my traineeship.
What activities or experiences helped you when applying for summer placements and traineeships/training contracts?
Put yourself out there! I never really did this until I got to the diploma. I wish I had done it during my LLB. The extra-curricular activities I undertook in my diploma year are a large part of what makes me remember the diploma year so fondly. Make time to go and get experience and then work hard on your studies around it. I think it’s especially important if you are unsure what you want to do career-wise, as I was during the LLB. Seek help from the university to get experience and you will figure out what you don’t want to do at the very least!