Case studies

Social Sciences Case Studies

Law

Jasbir

(Aged 23, graduated 1999)

I am a trainee solicitor working for the CPS (Crown Prosecution Service). I took a qualifying Law degree followed by a legal practice course. However, I had been unable to obtain much legal experience. After discussion with my careers adviser, we identified organisations to approach to obtain administrative work in a legal context. I was lucky enough to be selected for administrative work with the CPS. While at the CPS, as well as carrying out my work competently, I won a scholarship for short overseas study and also got involved on a committee looking at equal opportunities and diversity within the CPS. I was then able to apply for a training contract, which with the help of my careers adviser in identifying relevant competencies and experience, I managed to obtain.

Sociology

Bella

(Aged over 25, graduated 2001)

I am an Italian national and have recently obtained a place on an MA/DipSW course at a British university. I initially studied in Italy and also gained considerable work experience in 'care' work. I came to England to study for a Sociology degree, but also took the opportunity to gain more work experience, and to arrange an internship, with the help of my university, in the USA working with young people with learning difficulties. While in the USA, I also arranged some other relevant work experience. I applied to two local universities in the UK for MA/DipSW courses and was lucky enough to be accepted by both. I now intend to initially pursue a career in social work but I do not see this as the end and am also enrolling for a part-time PhD in a relevant area.