From Application to Offer: How I Secured my Training Opportunity

The first rule you should live by is never believe you are too inexperienced to apply for positions. Whilst some may argue that experience is essential when trying to progress in your career, I found that character above all else was the biggest factor.

How it started

I was in my second year of university when I applied for my Training Contract with Wolferstans. Although it may not be the most traditional route, I wanted to get my name out there. I had been attending networking events in the area, contacting solicitors and trainees alike.

I had no experience in the legal field, only a Course Representative role and a Student Ambassador for Law position. I had part-time jobs alongside studies from the age of 16, and tried my best when it came to my studies.

I had attended the ‘Meet the Trainees’ event in 2022, where I asked questions, showed a genuine interest, and became curious about the firm. I took the warm feeling I encountered from the trainees and focused my attention to researching the firm and what they had to offer. It quickly became clear that I wanted to work and grow with this firm, and so I decided to apply.

Applying for Training Opportunities 

I was always confident in my ability to communicate, however applying for this role felt daunting. I sought out advice from the University of Plymouth’s Careers department, which helped me with my CV and Cover Letter.

This brings me to my second rule to live by; never shy away from asking for help.

I received an enormous amount of help from Charlotte Paul in the careers department over the space of three months. She answered my questions, gave me advice and ensured that I was on track. This helped to discipline me and keep me focused.

Assessment Day

It can be difficult to calm nerves when stepping into an interview. However, it is natural to feel scared. I remember feeling so nervous that I couldn’t sleep the night before my assessment day. I was practising all possible questions and answers that could come up and trying to be as prepared as possible.

Walking into Wolferstans, I had no idea what to expect and I remember feeling worried that I may have been too bold for applying during my second year. Everyone around me was either a paralegal or a third-year student. I was not anywhere near as experienced as the other candidates.

However, I was determined not to shy away from questions and ensured that I was friendly and approachable. This is rule number three; just be yourself and try your best. Do not follow the crowd and agree with things you feel could be challenged. It is important to have your own opinions and speak up.

Interview

After my assessment day had finished, I received a call to attend an interview that same day. I had to prepare a presentation to give to the panel of partners who would determine if I secured the position.

The presentation could not be delivered electronically, and so I had to come up with a different solution, which brings me to rule number 4; think outside the box.

I had conducted extensive research and decided that visual representations was the best way to communicate my points effectively. I had printed documents for the partners which I presented to them before starting my presentation, and even added pink paperclips for a little personality flare!

The take-away

Wolferstans is a firm with a family feel and one where you can enjoy the company of those around you, without feeling out of place or nervous. During my first few months with the firm, I have found everyone to be welcoming and inclusive.

Everyone’s experience will be different, and if you conduct yourself well and try the hardest you can, you can achieve any ambition you desire. Therefore, if you have a great character, work hard and are willing to go the extra mile, Wolferstans is for you.

For those interested in applying for a training contract with Wolferstans, further details are available here Good Luck with the application process!