Isabella Jenkin

LLB, 2026, St John’s College

My Durham degree provided me with presentation skills, research skills, and the ability to write concisely. These definitely helped me at law firm assessment centres. Also, through Durham Law School, I had the opportunity to be on the Vienna Vis Moot team. I think the fact Durham law school participates in the Vis Moot helped me in terms of employability. It not only allowed me to build legal skills in a general sense, but also allowed me to delve into international commercial arbitration (an area I was previously completely unfamiliar with), which I realised I had a keen interest in and wanted to pursue. This led me to apply to Greenberg Traurig which has a strong arbitration practice and where I subsequently secured a training contract.

The Durham Careers Service was really good. I was able to do a couple of mock interviews before the real thing. Also, I had excellent academic advisors who were really helpful in guiding me towards the relevant careers service resources.

My advice to new joiners is to make the most of all the opportunities that come their way; be it something academic outside of their degree (like a moot), something sporty, a leadership role, being a mentee or mentor, or just trying something new. You will meet so many great people and create amazing memories.