Roula Khir Allah, a recent graduate of LLM International Commercial Law, had become become disheartened by being unsuccessful despite applying for many Paralegal opportunities. She was on the verge of giving up. She met with her Careers Adviser, Helen McNally, who gave her guidance on improving her CV and cover letter and suggested that she needed to get additional work experience. Helen referred her to David Keane, Project Officer from the Futures Connect Team whose mission is to help students and graduates engage with organisations to enhance their employability. David had previously reached out to DAS Law regarding possible Legal Advice work experience and with the fantastic support of Nicole Rogers, Senior Associate at DAS Law, had placed 12 students on invaluable placements. He contacted Nicole regarding Roula’s situation and she was happy to provide Roula with a week-long opportunity at their Bedwas office.
As a result of this introduction, Roula was encouraged to apply for suitable vacancies and she has been successful in acquiring a paid Paralegal contract! This is a fantastic example of collaborative working between Cardiff University and DAS Law and the positive outcomes that can arise.
Roula has told us:
“I strongly advise people to do a placement through the Futures Connect Work Experience team. They are very kind and friendly; they will give you a hand to open the door to the very competitive legal sector.”
DAS Law’s feedback couldn’t have been more complimentary, as Nicole Rogers stated:
“All of our interns so far have been impressive and have engaged well with our department. However, Roula quite evidently shone with her passion and genuine enthusiasm for both the law and our firm. Roula made a concerted effort to get to know members of the team and even requested copies of our training manuals to read at home; this appetite for learning certainly did not go unnoticed. On a more personal level, I immediately felt that Roula would be a great fit within our department and it was my absolute pleasure to interview her and eventually offer her a role.”
Jonathan Thomas, DAS Law, Department Manager added the following;
“We are so pleased Roula has chosen her legal career path with DAS and we look forward to developing her skills and confidence over the next few years. DAS has provided skilled-based employment for students and professionals for nearly 30 years and it gives us enormous pride to welcome Roula within the DAS family”
David Keane commented:
“Roula has shown that much sought-after graduate attribute of resilience and has reaped the rewards of her perseverance. DAS Law has been tremendous in their continuing support for Cardiff University students and graduates and going forward we hope to be able to build on this outstanding partnership.”
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