A law graduate has said the extra opportunities provided during her studies at Teesside University were a major factor in her launching her own successful legal career.
Louise Shaw is now working as a Legal Clerk at Punch Robson Solicitors after completing her LLB Law Degree at Teesside University earlier this year.
During her time at Teesside, Louise won a £500 bursary from Punch Robson Solicitors, along with a summer placement working with the University’s Law Clinic.
Teesside University has a proud record of supporting graduates into employment and was recently ranked in the top 40 in the country for graduate prospects in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide.
Recent data from the Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education (DLHE) survey 2015/16 also placed Teesside as the top North-East higher education institution for graduates securing professional and managerial level jobs.
Louise, 29, said: “Embarking on a law degree seemed a huge thing to do, but as each year passed I achieved good grades and my confidence in my ability grew. It was a brilliant feeling knowing I would complete what I’d set out to achieve. My graduation day was the proudest day of my life.”
The award-winning Teesside University Law Clinic has a dual purpose in providing law students with practical experience of handling legal cases, while offering a service to the community in cases where people may otherwise find it difficult to afford legal advice and representation.
Louise added: “The experience I gained as a student in the Law Clinic was extremely important. It allowed me to experience real clients and cases as if I was working at a law firm. It also enables students to bridge the gap between studying and legal practice.
“There is no doubt that without my degree I would not have secured my job with Punch Robson.”
Louise originally decided to return to education after moving back to the region.
“I considered other universities, but a family member had recently completed a degree at Teesside and had nothing but praise for the University,” explained Louise.
“My initial interaction and help from the Law School was the deciding factor, as all the staff were really helpful and friendly.”
Andrew Perriman, Teesside University Law Lecturer who runs the Law Clinic, said: “The support of Punch Robson Solicitors is incredibly important to the work we do at Teesside University Law Clinic and we are grateful to them. Louise was a great addition to the Law Clinic and was a very proactive student. We wish her every success in her future career.”
Julie Brown, associate solicitor with Punch Robson, said: “We are extremely proud to support the Law Clinic at Teesside University.
“The service they provide in the local area is incredibly important and provides access to justice for all. It also provides a platform for students like Louise to gain first-hand experience at working in the legal profession, which is invaluable when embarking upon a career with a law firm.”