Arjun

Describe your placement experience.

During my placement at the National Centre for Domestic Violence, I worked closely with trainee paralegals and caseworkers supporting individuals who could not afford legal representation. My responsibilities included preparing court paperwork, helping clients complete C100 forms. I was involved in cases linked to domestic abuse, which taught me the importance of attention to detail, empathy, and listening to each client’s story. I also gained practical experience in legal research, case preparation, and professional communication, which directly enhanced my understanding of family law and the challenges faced by vulnerable clients.

What are the best things about it?

The most rewarding part of my placement was getting hands-on experience supporting clients through stressful legal processes. I really enjoyed being able to help clients directly and see the immediate difference my work could make in helping them feel informed and supported. 

I found that I thrived when given more responsibility; it pushed me to manage my time, work under pressure, and solve problems on my own. 

Having the support of my peers and team leaders meant I was always encouraged to grow in a positive way. I also appreciated experiencing a high-intensity, heavy workload environment, as it gave me a real sense of what it’s like to work under pressure.

Have your career plans been informed by your placement?

Yes, my placement has significantly shaped my career plans. While I initially explored family law, I realized that the intensity and high workload of the placement suited me more than the nature of family law itself. I discovered that I thrive in environments that are fast-paced, intellectually demanding, and require meticulous attention to detail. This experience has pushed me toward a more commercial or corporate route, where I can continue to develop my skills while tackling complex challenges and delivering meaningful results.

What advice do you have for students on considering doing a placement?

I would say a placement is an invaluable experience. For me, it gave the chance to get up-close with real work, while having amazing support from both the university and my workplace. 

I learned so much on the job, grew my skills, and it even opened my eyes to possible postgraduate opportunities. Taking on responsibility, even when it felt intimidating, really helped me gain confidence, and asking for feedback made me improve faster.