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Q&A with Raina Hayles

Press release issued: 17 July 2018

Recent law graduate and Best Overall Performance in EU Law subjects prize winner, Raina Hayles talked to us about her experiences, inspiration and challenges whilst studying Law at Bristol.

What did you find most challenging during your time at the Law School?

I found first year quite challenging as it is a very steep learning curve. Whilst trying to make friends, settle in and participate in new activities, you must also learn legal jargon, understand how to read cases and how to manage your time. However, you must remember that everyone is in the same situation, and it gets easier over time as you become used to the workload.

What has been your proudest moment since starting your course?

This is a difficult question for me to answer as I have been very lucky in my time at the law school, and there have been several highlights for me. In first year, it was becoming the Mistress of the Moot on the UBLC Committee. It was a rewarding and exciting role, and it gave me many opportunities and memories which I will never forget. In second year, it was receiving an offer for a training contract at an international law firm in London, and in my final year it was probably achieving a high first in my Final Year Research Project, or winning this award!

What has inspired you most during your time here?

During my time at the Law School I was inspired by various different activities and people. Firstly, my ‘law parents’ assigned to me in first year were both high-achieving, intelligent and friendly people who encouraged me to take part in activities such as mooting, open days and careers fairs in my first year. This started my journey towards receiving a training contract and gave me the confidence to take part in the mooting competition, which became a central part of my university life. Mooting helped to refine my public speaking skills by teaching me how to speak in a concise and articulate manner, and for this I am grateful. I was also inspired by my tutors and personal tutor, who were always there to support me and advise me on how to get the marks I wanted.

How has your experience here helped you prepare for the workplace?

My experience at the Law School helped me to develop my time management skills whilst improving how I conduct independent research. Additionally, my experiences strengthened both my public speaking and analytical skills, which are vital for the career I have chosen. University is also a good time to learn how to balance social life with academic work, which is important throughout your working life.

What are your future aspirations following graduation?

I have accepted a training contract at international law firm Hogan Lovells, and will be starting my LPC in January 2019 in London. I would like to become a solicitor-advocate in the future, due to my passion for mooting.

What advice would you give to students about to start their journey into Law at Bristol?

I would advise any first year student to get involved in the UBLC (University of Bristol Law Club) as early as possible, as it provides multi-faceted guidance for academic and career prospects and social life. Additionally, I would advise that students get involved with as many activities as possible, don't say ‘no’ to any opportunities you are given in first year. Finally, be smart about your workload, remember you cannot revise every section of every module of every subject for your exams!

Further information

If you are graduating this summer, why not join our growing Law School Alumni community on LinkedIn. The group provides a great platform for acquiring careers advice, hearing about new opportunities and sharing your own experiences.

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