Boris Ignachkov Meet Jada, who is currently studying the Legal Practice Course. As well as completing the LPC part-time, she has also been able to successfully secure a paralegal role.
In Summer 2021, Jada graduated with a 2:1 in her Bachelor of Laws and went straight onto studying the LPC. Jada shares her journey of what it has been like working towards the LPC, whilst being full-time employed and useful advice for those with similar aspirations.
Read on to learn more!
How have you found studying the LPC so far? Are there any factors you have or have not particularly enjoyed?
Like a rollercoaster really, my first year has flown by so fast, and I have thoroughly enjoyed it. I have been fortunate enough to meet some brilliant people on my course, who I now call my friends and share this journey with. Having a group of friends also studying the LPC, really makes the process easier.
As I work full-time whilst completing the LPC, at times I would find it pretty tiring. On occasions, I would even study up until 1 am, preparing for those important exams. It has been challenging but in a good way, I have really gone on and beyond my expectations and have been able to push myself in ways that I never imagined would be possible. I was so determined to get exceptional grades and hard work certainly pays off!
What advice would you give to those wishing to embark on the LPC route?
Firstly, do your research. Each provider offers different modules, and I was lucky enough to find a provider that offered the modules that I was interested in. Once you have secured your place on the LPC: persevere, be organised, and free up some time for yourself.
Secondly, don’t be afraid to interact with others and engage in your classes more. I was a bit of a teacher’s pet/goody two shoes. I would come to class ready to work and would answer pretty much every single question up for grabs. Fast forward to now, it has paid off as I’ve smashed my exams and feel more confident than ever.
Thirdly, find a hobby that allows you to unwind. Mine specifically was working out at the gym or going for a nice walk by the canal. This was my free time since it was a great escape for me and also helped me keep healthy at the same time. After a good workout session, I would always feel more refreshed and motivated to get stuck back into my studies.
What is a typical day like at work for you?
In a nutshell, a typical day for me involves my principal sending me and my colleagues a bunch of emails regarding cases and a discussion of who would take each case on. From there, I would contact the client and arrange a meeting with them. During the meeting I’d take instructions from the client and make notes.
One case I’m particularly proud of is a negotiating one. Believe it or not, it was my first-time putting my negotiating skills to practise, and I was able to successfully negotiate a deal for the client. I left the office feeling like super-woman!
You’re gaining incredible hands-on experience working as a paralegal, what advice would you give to those also seeking a similar role?
It’s crucial you gain some form of legal work experience; this can be paid or voluntary. Many law firms even offer self-faced virtual programmes. Forage is an excellent provider of a wide variety of virtual work experience, from individual firms themselves.
Alternatively, you can try directly contacting a firm to see whether they can offer a day or two of shadowing experience. Add all of these experiences to your CV and mention them throughout your applications, making sure to focus on highlighting the wonderful skills you possess that would be relevant to the role you are applying for, along with evidence that demonstrates the extent of these skills.
Regularly check for job opportunities by subscribing to a firm(s) newsletter and recruitment alerts. This is a really helpful way to ensure you don’t miss any interesting roles and get your application submitted well in advance of the deadline.
Develop tougher skin and build your resilience because you will face rejection, it’s a part of the process, unfortunately. Use each rejection as a lesson to come back even stronger and never take it personally.
Networking is crucial, so make sure that you’re doing this. Whether it be virtually or in person, introduce yourself to some legal professionals and from there you’ll be able to build relationships and opportunities for yourself.
Thank you to Jada for sharing a glimpse into her legal journey and the very best of luck for the future!