Saadia is a LLB Law graduate from the London School of Economics. She secured a Training Contract at Ashurst through Bright Network. 
First, please tell us a little bit about yourself.
“I wanted to study Law at university, as I thoroughly enjoyed the intersection between the law, politics and economics. Modules such as competition law and public international law really stood out to me, for their need for complex analysis and an appreciation of commercial, political and humanitarian context.
The ability to think critically, and comprehensively attracted me to this discipline. I always wanted to be a lawyer growing up, and then took the leap to apply to LSE to study the subject - thankfully, it worked out!”
What motivated you to apply for your role?
“I wanted to train to be a solicitor, as I was attracted by the required skillset. I was always a socially inclined person, wanting to make new connections and work in a team-based environment where collaboration was encouraged.
The training contract at Ashurst was appealing as it had compulsory seats in finance and transactional, both of which I wanted to try, alongside the choice of two more plus a plethora of international and client secondments.
The tier one leading practices in many of its departments was appealing as I wanted to work on matters that had little precedent, required lateral thinking and a solution-orientated mindset.
Ashurst is also leading in the AI space, homing in on key technology which means that our roles now focus more on legal analysis, rather than processes. Ashurst, focusing on 'outpacing change', really makes a difference to the lives of trainees, and increases the level of complex work we get to do.”
What was the application process like?
“It was intense and the level of commerical awareness and knowledge about the how the firm operates that was required was quite high. It was important to be clued-up about that to impress partners at interview.”
What are you most proud of about your journey?
“I came from a state school in a run-down part of East London and worked my way to the London School of Economics and then, an international law firm. This was an incredibly proud and relieving moment.”
How did Bright Network help you secure your role?
“I attended the Bright Network Top 100 Lawyers event in first year, where I met an Ashurst representative who introduced me to the firm. I then stayed in contact with them and the firm throughout my time at university, attending open days, schemes etc.
I then got selected to be on the Bright Network International Women's Day event planning committee.”
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What have you learned from going through the process?
“Be your authentic self! There is nothing more unconvincing than 'trying to fit the mould' - people can see right past an applicant trying to fit the corporate stereotype. They are much more interested in what makes you different, and why you would be an asset to the firm, bringing something of added value.”
What are your tips for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
“Speak to as many people as you can at law firms of your choice, that way you can have authentic insights, instead of regurgitating the firm’s website in your applications and interviews.”
Tell us about the future. What’s next?
“I hope to qualify at Ashurst and remain here till partnership (fingers crossed!)”