21-year-old Rhiarnae, from Walsall, chose Leeds Trinity University as her first choice to study Law due to its appeal as a smaller institution and the compulsory work placements embedded in every undergraduate degree. She was first drawn to Leeds Trinity after learning that Dr Dawn Casserly, her Headteacher at St. Paul’s School for Girls in Birmingham, is an alumna of the University with a degree in Theology and Education. 

Alongside her studies, Rhiarnae has taken on many opportunities to develop practical employment skills through volunteering and professional work placements, including at Bradford and Keighley Magistrates' Court and a criminal law firm. She has also played an integral role in Leeds Trinity Students’ Union’s Law Society as Chairperson.

Rhiarnae is now preparing for the next stage in her legal career, after securing further study to qualify as a solicitor at the University of Law on the Masters in Legal Practice course. She is also working as a legal advisor at Citizens Advice.

Rhiarnae said: “My time at Leeds Trinity University has allowed me to go for my dreams no matter what. The University has also helped shape my future plans because I am now seeking opportunities like becoming a magistrate, something I did not previously consider. Whilst studying at the University I have become more confident and learnt to take risks – you don’t know until you try!”

Erica Wall, Graduate Employment Advisor at Leeds Trinity University, said: “Rhiarnae has been devoted to her professional development, well before even going into her final year of University. She has pursued opportunities in different areas of law and criminal justice, networking and making connections across the industry. She’s impressed partners on her professional placements and been asked to come back to firms to support them afterwards, which she has done whilst relishing the experience it’s given her.

“She has now secured a great role, helped by the great voluntary work she has done as a student, which she will do next year whilst pursuing legal qualification. I have no doubt she will make a great solicitor in the future!”

Find out more about studying Law at Leeds Trinity University, and our commitment to providing two professional work placements with every degree.