An update from ANNABELLE MACPHERSON.....

My experience with the AYP Mentor Scheme 2017/2018 has been a great eye-opener to a professional career. With Rod Hutchison as my mentor, the opportunity has allowed me to gain a first-hand insight into the legal sector. Throughout the meetings, Rod has been very helpful and has provided me with valuable advice for gaining a placement, traineeship and career routes as a solicitor.

Since the last blog, we have covered topics such as: improving my CV, creating a model cover letter for summer placements, general advice about the roles of a trainee, career options and the work duties of a corporate solicitor. The Scheme has allowed me to create a cover letter and CV which I will send out next week to potential placement firms. Rod has also given me advice for interviews and has continuously encouraged me to be myself. Throughout the Mentor Scheme, Rod has been supportive and motivating. The feedback Rod has provided me with at the meetings were always positive and encouraging to continue with the path I am on, allowing me to build up my CV to support a traineeship. I would like to thank Rod for his encouragement, advice and the time he has made.


I was encouraged by Rod and Stacy Edghill, who is also a mentor for the scheme, to attend Offshore Europe. At the event, Stacy was extremely helpful and took me around to network with different companies, which allowed me to ask questions relevant to a placement and traineeship. This opportunity allowed me to make connections over LinkedIn and provided email addresses so that I could send enquiries about placements.
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The AYP scheme has allowed me to gain an insight into a legal career and I would recommend the Mentor Scheme for any student or professional. I will be attending the AYP Ball in March 2018 and I am looking forward to hearing other people’s experience with the AYP scheme.