Maximising your summer: Tips for students interested in a career in law

Whether your summer is full of vacation schemes, internships, or empty gaps – there are plenty of opportunities for students to enrich their time away from the degree and advance their future careers.

Here are some tips to make the most out of this time:

1.???? Gain Practical Experience: You don't just have to have legal experience to add value to your CV so do look for opportunities to gain some additional work experience to build your skill set.

2.???? Network with Professionals: Online workshops, events, or simply reaching out to individuals on LinkedIn can build your relationships within the legal community. Networking can sometimes lead to mentorship opportunities and open your eyes to wider opportunities in law.

3.???? Volunteer for Legal Aid: Offering pro bono services allows you to apply skills in actual cases while helping those in need. It's an excellent way to give back and gain exposure to different areas of law. Seek opportunities as to how you can get involved with different organisations over the coming year.

4.???? Sit in Court: Most courts allow members of the public to sit in and observe hearings. By attending your local court, this experience can assist with your initial understanding of different laws and approaches.

5.???? Participate in Mooting: Engaging in these activities sharpens your advocacy and public speaking skills which are crucial for litigation. Seek opportunities and competitions you can get involved with.

6.???? Research and Write: Work on articles or assist with research projects. Published articles as a student will widen your knowledge on an area of interest and may distinguish you from peers.

7.???? Online work experience: Many law firms offer online work experience, which will give you an insight into some of the work you can get involved with as a trainee solicitor.

8.???? Prepare for Exams: If you're approaching qualification exams like the SQE, dedicate time to studying over the summer break, and advance your knowledge in areas.

9.???? Reflect on Career Goals: Evaluate what kind of law you want to practice and plan steps towards achieving those goals. Many law firms will be advertising their Open days and events ahead of the October rush so spending time researching will help with applications ahead of the deadlines.

10.? Rest and Recharge: While it's important to stay proactive, taking time off is essential for mental health and maintaining a sustainable work-life balance throughout your career.

By following these tips, students can utilise their summers effectively by building foundations that support academic success, practical skill development, and long-term career objectives within the legal profession.