First impressions

Hi Olivia, welcome to the Society! How are you finding it?

Thank you! Funnily enough, before arriving I had this perception that the Society would be endearingly old-fashioned and I’d find myself in amongst a sea of mahogany desks.

I’ve been happy to find that the new office in Atria One accurately reflects a much more innovative and modern organisation. This positive atmosphere is really important to me as finding different, interesting and engaging ways to reach out to new lawyers is a key element of my role.

Glad we’re surpassing expectations. What’s been your highlight so far?

I really enjoyed my first Legal Studies and Careers Day in Aberdeen, where I met around 40 school pupils all keen to start on the path to a career in law by finding out more about the profession from ourselves as well as some LLB students, trainees and qualified solicitors.

It was great to receive positive feedback at the end too, as it proves the events are so worthwhile. And if we’re on the top of feedback, this is a great moment to plug a survey I’m working on.

So tell us more about the survey: who do you want to hear from?

We want to hear from new lawyers and anyone from LLB students up to solicitors with five years post-qualification. We want to evaluate the services and support that the Society provides so we can assess how we can better serve trainees in future. It only takes five minutes and will be hugely valuable for us, but also for you as a new lawyer as your feedback can influence our policy and strategy. Get your voice heard.

What are you most looking forward to?

I’m excited for my calendar to heat up for all our university and schools visits in the autumn term. I can’t wait to get out and meet all our new lawyers.

One last question – what do you get up to outside of the Society?

I’ve got a sporty side and I really enjoy netball, running and hiking. When I’m not wrestling with writer’s block, I’m writing a comedy screenplay and spend time cooking or eating out at different places.

To find out more about the support available for new and prospective solicitors, visit www.lawscot.org.uk/education-and-careers/

To fill in the survey about services for trainees, visit www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/FJRSRHF