University of Huddersfield hosts inaugural Law Careers Fair

The University of Huddersfield welcomed law firms from across the region to participate in its Law Careers Fair, which aimed to support the professional development of its students.

The event took place in the University’s Oastler Building on 22 February. Solicitors specialising in Divorce Law, Kinship Care Law, and Commercial Property Law, amongst many other specialisms, shared their expertise to support students with their career options after graduation. Over 20 leading companies joined, including Chadwick Lawrence, Ridley & Hall, and Schofield and Sweeney.

The fair began with a panel talk from legal experts Gwen Sharp from Pinsent Masons LLP, Rachel Main from the University of Huddersfield’s Solicitor’s Office, and Alastair James from Ramsdens Solicitors LLP, who all highlighted the diverse nature of the profession by sharing insightful advice from their areas of expertise. Following the presentations, students were able to network with all participating firms.

A Law student from the University of Huddersfield said, “Sometimes students are not fully aware of all the different opportunities there are which is why it is important that students have the chance to network with a wide range of legal professionals and firms as it is eye-opening for aspiring lawyers. I enjoyed networking and meeting potential employers because I have not yet had the opportunity.”

After two years of virtual events due to COVID-19, the University was thrilled to host a face-to-face event that allowed students to network with solicitors to build and develop important relationships.

A representative from Huddersfield-based solicitors Switalskis said, “The Law Careers Fair is extremely valuable to students as there is such a range of different professionals to speak to and engage with. My University did not offer anything like this when I was a student studying, but I would have certainly benefited from it”.

Professor Kasim Sheikh, Head of the Law School at the University of Huddersfield, added,“We are incredibly proud of managing to get 20 leading law firms together for an event that focuses on our student’s professional and personal development. It is one of many initiatives our School is working on to ensure our students are prepared for a successful career after University.”

The University of Huddersfield is pleased to have relationships with leading law firms, which all aim to inspire and support the next generation of forward-thinking legal professionals. Ensuring a continued network of support available to its students is extremely important to the Law School. The University plans to continue hosting such events in the months and years to come, inspiring its students, and helping them to forge strong links with industry leaders.