Uptree

Hi everyone! My name is Fairy and I am a year 13 student studying A-level Geography, Government & Politics and Business Studies, and I am hoping to study law in September 2023.

Tell us about your experience with Uptree

My journey with Uptree has been incredible. I have taken advantage of many opportunities since October 2022 including the recent Allen & Overy in-person application masterclass where I was able to get to know the firm’s culture. During this event, I was informed about a follow-up opportunity which I am excited to apply to. I have also participated in Uptree opportunities with Linklaters and Clyde & Co. These opportunities have been really great additions to my CV and I have been able to discuss these experiences in recent interviews and assessment centres.

I initially applied to both degree apprenticeships and university for law. However, I considered the university pathway as a potential financial burden, and I was worried about the lack of guidance that I may receive, especially since I am a first-generation university student. Therefore, I chose to apply to a few degree apprenticeships whilst I waited for my university offers to come through. Due to the competitive application process, out of the four I applied for, I was rejected by three. I later decided not to continue with the last firm in the recruitment process. Despite this, I do truly believe that everything happens for a reason. The reason why I say that is because, alongside the university application process, I also applied for a university scholarship offered by the law firm Stephenson Harwood that would cover all my tuition fees and contribute towards my living expenses.

Towards the end of March 2023, I was invited to the final stage of the process, an in-person interview at their London office, and I am delighted to say that I was offered the scholarship. Therefore, I will now be proceeding onto university to study law, whilst making use of the mentor that Stephenson Harwood has connected me with. I’m beyond grateful for this opportunity since I will now receive guidance on how to make the most of my university experience whilst gaining crucial tips on how to secure potential training contract offers. The Stephenson Harwood scholarship also offers a guaranteed assessment centre place for their training contract, which is an amazing addition to the programme!

Do you have any advice for students in a similar situation to you who are also interested in a similar career path?

Overall, I am very happy with my journey so far, and I was able to make use of the skills gathered from Uptree opportunities, like events and support calls, and demonstrate them during the scholarship selection process. One piece of advice I would give to students in a similar position to me is that saying “yes” to opportunities that scare you the most is the best and fastest way to grow your confidence. So please do make the most out of the opportunities available and of course, utilise Uptree and take advantage of schemes like the Stephenson Harwood scholarship!

Visit the Uptree platform to find out about upcoming opportunities.