by Mohamed
Starting university was an exciting milestone, but stepping into my first law lecture felt like diving headfirst into a whirlwind of information and challenges. From exploring potential career paths in the legal sector to understanding the strategies needed to break into this competitive field, I quickly realized the importance of preparation, networking and confidence.
The legal sector is notoriously competitive, demanding not only academic excellence but also a strong professional network and self-assurance. I understood early on that building a solid network would significantly improve my chances of succeeding in my degree and future career. A key factor that has contributed to my growing confidence and networking ability is my experience working in the careers team at UWE.
This role has been transformative. By engaging in continuous conversations with students seeking career advice, I have honed my communication skills. Working in a supportive team environment has taught me the value of collaboration and how to build strong professional relationships. Furthermore, my managers, in particular, have played a key role in my development, providing guidance and creating opportunities for me to improve both my confidence and networking abilities.
One example of this was creating social media content to support students seeking employment. I was tasked with producing a video that would be viewed by over 3,000 people at my university. Initially, I found the task daunting, but after several takes, I realised that all I needed was a little encouragement. One of my managers provided exactly that, reassuring me that there was no pressure to complete the video if I didn’t feel comfortable. This supportive approach transformed what seemed like an overwhelming challenge into an exciting opportunity. By the time the video was finished, I had not only completed the task but also gained confidence in my ability to step outside my comfort zone.
Another part of the job that significantly improved my networking skills was interacting with employers who visited the careers lounge. I remember speaking to a representative from CCUSA, an organization that offers camp work opportunities in America. Initially, I hesitated to approach her, assuming she might be too busy for a quick chat. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how welcoming and engaged she was when I introduced myself. She shared information about the opportunities they offer and even encouraged me to apply, noting that my outgoing personality would make me a great fit for a camp environment. This interaction not only boosted my confidence but also highlighted the importance of taking initiative and being open to new conversations.
Through these experiences, I have learned that confidence isn’t something you’re born with; it’s something you develop over time with practice and perseverance. Regularly interacting with students and professionals has helped me overcome initial hesitations and become more comfortable in professional settings.
Networking, much like confidence, is a skill that requires effort and intentionality. Attending events, reaching out to professionals, and actively engaging with peers are all crucial steps. My time in the careers team has reinforced the importance of being proactive and genuine in building connections.