The Power of Putting Yourself Out There

At one point, I had two choices: either let my circumstances define who I was or believe that there was more out there for me. I chose the latter.

Coming from a lower socioeconomic background could have discouraged me from pursuing my ambitions. Instead, it instilled an unwavering drive within me, further strengthened by my mother, who always believes in me. I attended state schools throughout my education, including a secondary school, like many others, had its challenges. However, I remained determined and focused on achieving my goals, passing all my GCSEs with grades A*-C.

I never ignore my circumstances, as they shape the woman I am today. Instead of letting them hold me back, I use them as fuel to ignite my passion and the confidence to put myself out there.

Mindset Shifts That Changed Everything

1. Intentionality In My Words

Before I became a legal apprentice, I spoke it into existence. I consistently affirmed that I would become one. Without self-belief, I knew I would only get so far. Speaking my aspirations into reality set the foundation for achieving them.

2. Developing Confidence

Putting myself out there required confidence. My confidence comes from my faith as a Christian and from building both a mental and physical portfolio of my achievements. When doubt creeps in, I can look back at my journey and see proof that I am equipped to seize new opportunities.

3. The Right Environment and People

The people you surround yourself with have a direct impact on your mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Having a supportive, authentic, and honest network has been instrumental in my journey. Their encouragement has given me the strength to step outside my comfort zone and pursue opportunities I once hesitated to go after.

Why Putting Yourself Out There Matters

As women, we often shy away from putting ourselves forward. However, when I started stepping out of my comfort zone and believing through God everything is possible, opportunities began to multiply.

From a Networking Event to a Magic Circle Internship

During sixth form, I was eager to gain experience in the legal field. I attended my first-ever in-person networking event, expecting to meet legal professionals. Unfortunately, no solicitors were present, and I initially felt like I had wasted my time.

However, I decided to make the most of the event. I initiated a conversation with another attendee about our shared interest in law and later connected with them on LinkedIn. A few weeks later, they sent me an internship opportunity at a Magic Circle law firm. I applied, secured a place, and gained invaluable insights from senior partners. This experience also introduced me to the founder of a company where I now volunteer.

Had I not put myself out there at that event, I would have missed out on this life-changing opportunity.

Maximising Every Experience

Determined to gain as much work experience as possible, I secured a week-long placement at a leading UK law firm during sixth form. I made it my mission to engage actively, knowing that being proactive was the best way to make the most of the experience.

One highlight was a CV session, where I took the initiative to bring my CV the next day for in-person feedback. I also initiated conversations with solicitors in different specialisms, which broadened my understanding of various legal fields. One solicitor shared that they never imagined working in pensions law until they tried it—this inspired me to embrace different specialisms before deciding on my future legal focus.

Taking these steps confirmed that the apprenticeship route was the best choice for me, allowing me to explore different areas of law while gaining hands-on experience.

Navigating Apprenticeship Applications and Rejections

When the time came to apply for solicitor apprenticeships, I poured my experiences, passions, and ambitions into each application. But the journey wasn’t easy.

Despite putting myself out there, I faced rejection multiple times. After progressing through several stages of an application, I was ultimately told, "Unfortunately, you have not been selected for the next stage."

Balancing university applications, A-level exams, the LNAT, and life’s general demands made this even more challenging. However, I refused to let rejection discourage me. I saw it as redirection.

With only one last chance to secure an apprenticeship for that academic year, I applied again—trusting in God’s plan. I secured a Level 4 paralegal apprenticeship, with the opportunity to progress to a Level 7 solicitor apprenticeship. I now work at a company where I feel valued and have continuous opportunities for growth.

The Takeaway: The Power of Putting Yourself Out There

Choosing to put myself out there has not only built my confidence but also strengthened my resilience. Every rejection, every challenge, and every moment of doubt led me closer to my goal of qualifying as a solicitor.

If there’s one thing I hope you take away from my journey, it’s this: putting yourself out there holds power. It opens doors, creates opportunities, and brings you closer to achieving your dreams. Step out, embrace discomfort, and trust that every effort will lead you exactly where you’re meant to be.

 

Carley Luckett

Legal Apprentice | Speaker | The Vice Chair at The Black Law Network | Educational Content Creator | Transparency Tuesday Creator | Aspiring Solicitor

You can find out more and connect with Carley on LinkedIn.