Aberdeen University Commercial Law Society
The Aberdeen University Commercial Law Society (AUCLS) is a law society that fully focuses on careers in the commercial world. The aim of the society is to improve career prospects for aspiring commercial lawyers. Brodies partner with AUCLS and offer a mentoring scheme to AUCLS members. The members have the opportunity to have a one-to-one mentorship experience with a trainee at Brodies.
Mentoring
The mentorship scheme is a great initiative that gives students the opportunity to gain an insight into what a career in commercial law is really like. Students are partnered with a mentor from Brodies and are responsible for reaching out to their mentor to initiate the mentoring relationship. Each relationship is unique and is dependent on what the student needs. Some reach out to their mentor via email with questions that may pop up or some meet regularly for a catch-up.
Common topics that crop up are career aspirations, developing confidence, developing commercial awareness, exploring career paths and managing time effectively. Brodies' mentors are available to share experiences with students, provide support, encourage development and answer any questions they may have about university courses, careers and the law in practice. Mentors can provide top tips for upcoming summer placements and traineeship applications and are there to give advice regarding any queries they may have.
Why did I get involved?
I got involved as chairperson and mentor as I am eager to help students prepare for the transition from university to the workplace. As chairperson I am responsible for encouraging other trainees to get involved and being the first point of call for any questions mentors have. As a mentor, I am keen to help those who are unsure on what their options are post-university, or those who are at the beginning of the process of applying for summer placements and traineeships. It can be quite a daunting and busy time, as a lot of deadlines are far in advance and often around exam periods. I think it is important to spend time encouraging and helping law students, and giving them the support to any queries or worries they might have.
I chose to be a mentor as I was the first in my family to attend university and when I was applying for summer placements and traineeships - I didn't know what to expect. During my final years at university, I found it quite overwhelming when making decisions about my next steps, so I liked the idea of providing support and encouragement to another person who is going through similar.
As a mentor I would encourage both students and trainees to get involved. It is such a rewarding and beneficial scheme. I would also urge students who are currently at university to get involved in societies like this and make the most of these experiences. It is an ideal time to find out about what options are available for the future and to ask questions – there is no such thing as a silly question!
Contributor
Trainee
