Jack Ashurst

LLB, 2026, South College

I have secured a training contract with Mills & Co., a shipping law firm based in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne; it does not all happen in London!

My Durham degree gave me several unique advantages whilst applying for a graduate job. On the academic side, the opportunity to be guided by world leading academics was invaluable. They were able to provide in-depth guidance on both academic matters as well as on future career interests.

Meanwhile, my wider experiences at Durham were instrumental in forming my soft-skills which are crucial for successful applications. For example, during my time at Durham I was one of the first two Student Reporters for the Durham Law School Alumni Association which had been set up in September 2024. The first person I interviewed was one of the Association’s first Joint Presidents, Durham alumna and former UK Supreme Court Judge, Lady Black of Derwent. I was also able to participate in several advocacy competitions both nationally and within the University itself.

The employability support provided at Durham was critical for my applications. The Law School’s Employability Course gave me valuable insight into the different services offered throughout the University which I then was able to make full use of during my second and third years. For example, prior to my first Vacation Scheme interview, I was able to book a mock interview with the Durham Careers Service to guide my preparation and expose any gaps in my CV which could then be addressed through extra-curricular activities. The Employability Course itself, available to Law Students, provided an important base during my first year from which I could build from to help improve my applications during my second year. I was in the first team to finish the first full version of the Course.

My top piece of advice for anyone considering Law at Durham would be to maximise your time in Durham. The degree comes with fantastic opportunities to improve your wider CV and student life. Participating in these extra-curricular activities is extremely important whilst making applications.