Issy Bainbridge

Issy sits at a wooden table with a laptop in front of her. She is wearing a stripy shirt and has long hair and glasses and smiles to the camera.

Issy Bainbridge

LLB (Hons) Law 2019

1.  Tell us about yourself. 

I graduated from the Law LLB undergraduate course at ARU with a 2:1 in 2019. I then went on to study the LPC LLM at BBP in Cambridge and am now working at Holmes & Hills LLP as a trainee solicitor, following working as a Paralegal to increase my knowledge.

2.  What is your fondest memory at Anglia Ruskin University?

It is hard to choose one distinct moment but being part of a good cohort who were not just my peers as students but also friends who were all after the same goal and willing to help each other, as well as creating many moments of laughter.

3.  What has been your favourite job? 

I have been with Holmes & Hills LLP since November 2019 following graduation and I have been in the Litigation team which has been very enjoyable in progressing my career and increasing my knowledge.

4.  In one word, how would you describe Anglia Ruskin University

Accommodating.

5.  How did your time at Anglia Ruskin help you? 

It developed my interest and enabled me to continue with postgraduate studies, which ultimately led to me obtaining the job I have wanted for years.

6.  What did you love about your chosen course?

The availability and assistance provided by lecturers whenever I needed to clarify a topic.

7.  What advice would you give to current students as they're preparing to graduate? 

Apply for all types of roles within a law firm, even if they aren’t training contracts straight away, as you will more than likely progress upwards if you work hard. It is all about getting a foot in the door in the first instance. If you go on to study the LPC, my biggest advice would be: (i) make good shorthand notes in lectures for revision (ii) do practice papers before exams and (iii) make friends as you can then pick each other up on areas you may be less certain on.

8.   What do you know now that you wish you had known whilst studying?

Starting in a “lower” position, such as a paralegal, does not place you in any worse position than obtaining a training contract straight away. If anything, it broadens your knowledge better. Furthermore, employers look for more than just ‘good grades’; being well-rounded is just as important as getting good grades.

9.  Who was the biggest influence on your career?

Honestly, myself. My A-Levels didn’t turn out quite as planned and people had always doubted me. But believe in yourself and work hard; if you want something bad enough, you can achieve it.

10.  What advice would you give your younger self?

Have more confidence because it is all possible.

11.  Tell us something about yourself that most people don't know.

When I was younger, I was invited to be part of the Aida’s opera performance at the Ipswich Regent Theatre. I have danced at Her Majesty’s Theatre, London, and I have also obtained my silver Duke of Edinburgh award.

12.  What's next?

Continue with my training contract with Holmes & Hills and qualify as a solicitor.