Speaking to people who have studied Law and Business at University themselves was the start of my interest in this degree course and career – as they explained how the course had equipped them with skills for life, such as valuable research skills and how they developed very strong written and oral communications skills, I became more attracted to this field. I chose to study Law A-level, which I am really enjoying, and it has given me an understanding of how the legal system works, the roles in the legal profession, as well as enabling me to apply my knowledge when tackling problem questions. To give me a deeper insight beyond the Alevel syllabus, I attended the ‘Young Lawyer Programme’ higher education event at UCL where a variety of solicitors and barristers gave lectures on their profession and what it involves, which I found incredibly inspiring: it cemented my decision to study Law and Business.

I have visited Birmingham Crown Court on regular occasions to help my understanding of criminal law, and witnessing cases unravel has been fascinating and enabled me to experience the practical side of law. I gained the opportunity to carry out legal experience first-hand at Glaisyers LLP Birmingham where I drafted letters, studied cases and sat in different courts where I got to meet various other lawyers and gained a valuable insight into criminal, family and commercial law as well as develop valuable organisational skills. I have attained further experience in the financial field at Lloyds Bank, where I sat in private client meetings and shadowed sales advisers who taught me how to carry out cheque validation and how to deal with disputed transactions. These combined experiences have consolidated my particular interest in Commercial Law, which especially appeals to me as it makes everyday business activity possible yet still involves case law.

My part-time job at Tesco allows me to interact with a variety of customers each day and I have had to learn to adapt myself in different situations. I also worked as a merchandiser in B&M which taught me time management skills and the skills necessary to work as part of a team. Having these jobs whilst taking my A levels has really enhanced my personal organisation.

Volunteering alongside Zoe’s Place Hospice since 2015 has been great, helping me grow in confidence when talking to people and work independently whilst developing my communication skills: I carry out various roles such as regularly bag packing in supermarkets and running stalls at fêtes throughout the year. I also participated in a ‘Grin and Bear it’ run to raise money for Zoe’s place even though this activity was out of my comfort zone! I volunteered with the charity Delete Blood Cancer and helped to organise a charity event for Rhiane’s Cancer Campaign looking for bone marrow donors for a young girl with leukaemia. I ran a stall and helped to organise the raffle, which gave me further interaction with the public. Additionally, I recently cut off my hair for the charity The Little Princess Trust to provide a wig for children with cancer or other illnesses.

At school, I am a Senior Assistant Prefect, a position of real responsibility, which requires me to prevent any issues that may arise between classes and pupils, and to contribute regularly at school events such as open days. This has considerably improved my interpersonal skills, as I am required to interact with pupils of all ages and visitors to the school. I am a member of the Social Committee at school, which involves organising events and working as a team. I feel the qualities I have developed through the work experience I have gained along with my hard work and enthusiasm will be very beneficial whilst undertaking a Law and Business degree, and I’m really excited to take this next step and commit to university study.