Pyper Whittlestone, LLB Law

When I first started my placement year as a Law student from the University of Roehampton at Setfords Solicitors, I knew I was stepping into something new, not just for myself, but for my university as well. As the first Law student to take this route, there wasn’t a clear blueprint to follow. While that was exciting, it also came with its fair share of uncertainty.

Naturally, there were challenges along the way. Like any new initiative, there were teething problems and moments where things didn’t run as smoothly as expected. However, what made all the difference was the support system around me. With the guidance and encouragement of Bev and Chris from the Student Futures team, those early obstacles became opportunities to learn, adapt, and grow, both for myself and for the university. Their support has been instrumental in helping me navigate a path that, at times, felt completely uncharted.

One of the most unexpected and rewarding aspects of this journey has been the response from other students. Increasingly, I’ve had younger Law students reach out to me, asking questions, seeking advice, and expressing interest in pursuing their own placement years. It’s a surreal feeling to realise that something that once felt so uncertain is now becoming a source of inspiration for others. The opportunity to open doors for others is incredibly meaningful, and I’m grateful to be in a position where I can do that.

Being in this position has made me reflect on what it really means to be a “trailblazer”. It’s not just about personal achievement, it’s about responsibility. There’s a level of pressure that comes with setting a precedent, but there’s also a unique opportunity to make the path clearer and more accessible for those who follow. Being able to support and guide others who are considering this route is something I take a lot of pride in.

This experience hasn’t always been easy. Balancing expectations, adapting to a professional legal environment, and navigating something entirely new has pushed me in ways I didn’t anticipate. But it has also been incredibly rewarding. I’ve developed not only my legal skills, but also my confidence, resilience, and ability to adapt in unfamiliar situations.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue making the most of this opportunity. There is still so much to learn, and I’m eager to see how the rest of this placement year unfolds. More importantly, I hope that this is just the beginning, not just for me, but for other Roehampton students who may now feel empowered to take that same step.

If you’d like to find out more about what a placement year in law looks like day-to-day, you can also read my blog, “A day in the life: an industrial placement in corporate law”.

Being the first is never easy, but it’s always worth it!