Cara Cahill

LLB, 2026, St Cuthbert’s Society

Unquestionably the greatest advantage when applying for graduate jobs was the experience that I had gained at Durham through several leadership roles, ranging from the Welfare Society and the Feminist Society to the Netball D Team! These positions, alongside working as campus ambassador for a Silver Circle law firm, enabled me to stand out in my applications. Through these positions, I gained crucial experience and developed skills that were essential in applications and interviews, thus securing a training contract with A&L Goodbody, Ireland. They also greatly contributed to my personal confidence and many of my fondest memories in Durham, so to anyone who may be feeling a little apprehensive, I would say get involved!

The Durham Careers Service was also incredibly helpful, particularly their service for reviewing CVs. After a few rejected applications, I sent in my CV, then had a really useful one-to-one appointment with one of the careers team who went through each line, analysing the content and figuring out how to improve it. This unquestionably improved my applications. The team was really approachable!

My top piece of advice for someone considering Law at Durham would be to seize the opportunity! The passion and innovation of the academics in the Law School is truly inspiring. The work that these professors are doing, from activism, reforming legislation and educating all of us, it was impossible to leave without feeling motivated. There are so many areas of law to get involved with and you will certainly find those that spark something in you. For the more difficult times, you could not be supported by a more welcoming and encouraging team of academics.