Many aspiring lawyers believe that until they secure a vacation scheme or formal legal internship, they have little to offer in applications.

In reality, strong law applications are built long before formal internships, through choices you make alongside your studies and how well you understand what law firms actually value.

This guide breaks down how to build credible and relevant work experience while studying,.

Inside, you’ll learn how to:

• Use your degree as evidence of legal skills (research, analysis, judgment, communication)

• Leverage university opportunities like law clinics, societies, mooting and pro bono work

• Gain meaningful exposure through high-street firms and legal volunteering

• Create your own experience through writing, content, and initiative-led projects

• Use virtual work experience strategically (without wasting time)

• Turn any experience into strong application evidence recruiters care about

You’ll also see practical examples showing how everyday roles and activities can be converted into compelling answers for competency and motivation questions.

This resource is designed to help you stop waiting for the “perfect” opportunity and start building a profile that actually converts.

Whether you’re in first year, midway through your degree, or reapplying after rejection, this guide shows you how strong candidates build momentum long before offers arrive.