Courtney is a Law student from Salford University and the University of Law. She secured a Trainee Solicitor role at Hill Dickinson commencing in 2026 in their Manchester office.
First, please tell us a little bit about yourself.
“Growing up, I always had an interest in solving problems and helping people, though I wasn’t sure in what capacity. At first, I thought about becoming a teacher, but as I grew older, my interest in the complexities of law and how it impacts people's lives led me to pursue a legal career.
I decided to go to university because I wanted to prove to myself that I could succeed in academia despite my dyslexia. I was also passionate about understanding the law and how it shapes the world around us. University was the next step in gaining the knowledge and skills I needed to pursue a legal career.
My motivation for pursuing law comes from a desire to engage in meaningful work that challenges me intellectually and allows me to make difference. While I’m still exploring which area of law I want to specialise in, I’m drawn to the fact that the legal profession offers a variety of paths. Whether it’s through advocacy, client service, or finding solutions to complex legal issues, I’m excited by the idea of working in a field that demands constant learning and growth. I’m confident that through continued exposure and experience, I will find the area of law that resonates with my skills and passions.”
What motivated you to apply for your role?
“My motivation to apply for the training contract at Hill Dickinson stems from the firm’s strong reputation for delivering high-quality legal services across diverse sectors, including areas like commercial law, which I’m particularly interested in exploring further.
The firm’s commitment to innovation and adaptability in response to emerging trends, such as technology, aligns with my desire to work in a forward-thinking environment. Additionally, Hill Dickinson’s focus on nurturing talent and providing a supportive, collaborative culture makes it an ideal place for me to develop my legal skills and find my niche.
The training contract offers exposure to a wide range of practice areas, which is especially appealing to me as I’m still discovering which area of law I want to specialise in. I am excited by the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and contribute to the firm's continued success.”
What was the application process like?
“I found the application process for the training contract at Hill Dickinson to be thorough and reflective of the firm's high standards. The process challenged me to reflect deeply on my experiences and how they align with the firm's values of client-focused service, innovation, and collaboration.
I appreciated the opportunity to showcase my skills, especially in relation to teamwork and problem-solving, which are essential in legal practice. While it was competitive, the structure of the application allowed me to highlight my strengths and the diverse experiences I’ve gained, giving me confidence that I could thrive in Hill Dickinson’s environment.
I received helpful feedback after speaking with trainees and legal professionals. They emphasized the importance of being authentic during interviews, not just focusing on technical skills but also showcasing my personal values and how they align with the firm. This advice helped me approach the process with confidence, knowing I could present a genuine version of myself.”
What are you most proud of about your journey?
“I am most proud of the resilience I’ve shown throughout my academic journey. Despite not obtaining A-levels due to my struggles with dyslexia, I refused to let that define my path. I knew I had to approach learning differently, so I taught myself how to be an academic. I took the time to understand how I best absorb information and adjusted my study habits accordingly.
Through dedication and hard work, I was able to earn a first-class honours degree. This achievement has not only made me incredibly proud but has also given me a deep sense of confidence in my abilities.
Since then, I've had countless amazing opportunities that I may not have otherwise pursued, and I feel empowered by the knowledge that I can overcome challenges, no matter how big.”
What have you learned from going through the process?
“I learned that the application process requires a balance of preparation and adaptability. I was surprised by how much the firm valued authenticity and personal fit, beyond just academic achievements or legal knowledge.
The process was more in-depth than I initially expected, especially the assessment stages, but it allowed me to reflect deeply on my experiences. I wish I’d known earlier how important it is to practice situational judgement tests and develop techniques for staying calm under pressure during group exercises—it would have boosted my confidence even more from the start.”
What are your tips for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
“My advice would be to start preparing early and ensure that you have a clear understanding of what the firm values. Tailor your application to reflect those values by highlighting relevant experiences that demonstrate your skills in areas like teamwork, problem-solving, and client service. Also, don’t underestimate the importance of research—learn about the firm’s practice areas and how you can contribute to them.
Looking back, I would have spent more time preparing for the assessments. While I prepared well overall, I realised that earlier practice with these types of tests would have made me more confident and comfortable.”
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received regarding applications?
“The best advice I received was to be authentic in my application. Rather than just ticking boxes, I was encouraged to really show how my experiences align with the firm’s culture and values. This helped me focus on the quality of my responses, rather than just trying to fit in everything I had done.”
What resources were most helpful for preparing for applications?
“Legal blogs, podcasts, and online platforms have been great resources for understanding the legal industry and what firms like Hill Dickinson are looking for. Practice test platforms were also invaluable in helping me prepare for the online assessments. Additionally, speaking with current trainees and attending open days gave me firsthand insights that shaped my approach to the application process.”
Tell us about the future! What’s next?
“I'm looking forward to gaining hands-on experience and working alongside experienced legal professionals. The opportunity to rotate through different practice areas during the training contract is something I’m particularly excited about, as it will give me a broader perspective and help me discover which area of law suits me best.
I’m most excited about the chance to contribute to real-world legal challenges and build relationships with clients. I’m eager to develop my legal reasoning and advocacy skills while making a meaningful impact through my work. It’s the idea of continuously learning and evolving that excites me the most.
I’m hoping to learn and develop by embracing every opportunity that comes my way—whether it’s through mentorship, challenging cases, or feedback from colleagues. I plan to refine my technical skills, but also focus on honing my ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly and effectively. I believe that a combination of hands-on experience, self-reflection, and continuous learning will drive my growth as a solicitor.”
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