Ashurst Perkins Coie

More than 1.9 million students use Unifrog every year, with over 106,000 signing up to our events. But what happens after? Where do these students end up? How does Unifrog help them get there? Jennifer – a new solicitor apprentice at Ashurst Perkins Coie – shares her experience as a Unifrog alum.

How it started

“I love reading, researching, and writing. At school, I could already see the links between the subjects I love and law, but it wasn’t until I used Unifrog that I was able to plan a route into the field.

At the beginning of Year 12, I joined Unifrog’s ‘Paving the way to successful law careers’ webinar. There were representatives from three law firms there – including Ashurst Perkins Coie. The webinar provided a great insight into the world of law and apprenticeships in an accessible way. This meant I was able to use what I learnt from the webinar across my application process.

I researched the firm afterwards and found the ACCESS Ashurst Perkins Coie programme. The programme was the reason I wanted to work for Ashurst Perkins Coie. They have such a big focus on diversity and social mobility; it felt like they really wanted me there and they wanted to challenge me. On the programme, I met lawyers of all levels including partners, and got to ask them many questions and build connections. I kept in touch with an Ashurst Perkins Coie team member who shared top tips to support me with my apprenticeship application. I felt so supported by the firm even before I joined.”

How it’s going

“I am a few weeks into my apprenticeship at Ashurst Perkins Coie. So far, I’ve been involved in lots of training, and have met people across the London office and in my department – which specialises in energy and projects. The team is made up of more than 80 people and I’m eager to make and develop connections. I’ve enjoyed working with other apprentices and trainees and getting to know my buddy apprentice, who is there to support me, alongside my supervisor.

I’m enjoying learning about the work my team does through conversations and research. The move from school to work has been a big change, but I have a support network around me. I’m looking forward to my next big challenge, which will be starting my university studies and balancing this alongside my work responsibilities.

My A level journey taught me the value of growth: despite a slow start, my work ethic meant I achieved two A*s and one A. This mirrors the nature of an apprenticeship, where success isn't about being perfect immediately; it’s about working hard to develop your skills over time.”

How other students can take their leap of faith

“Use Unifrog’s webinars. Whether you have an idea of what you want to do or not, have a look through the upcoming webinars and see if there’s anything that intrigues you. They’re quite exciting, and they’re a really accessible way to gain knowledge about different career pathways.

The representatives who talk on the webinars come from a similar environment to you and they’ll share what their jobs and their day-to-day work are like. It’s a great way of learning more about all the opportunities available to you and if there are any programmes that will help you develop and build professional connections.”