Louise Çakar  LLB Hons, 2009

Associate with CMS Cameron McKenna, Istanbul Office

I was drawn to the University because of its excellent international reputation and how attractive the campus is with its green spaces and duck ponds. The quality of the law school both in terms of research and teaching is fantastic. In addition to preparing you academically for a career in law, you will also learn many practical skills while studying there, so whichever path you decide to take after graduation, you will be prepared.

My time at Southampton University will always be some of the best years of my life. The quality of the law school both in terms of research and teaching is fantastic.

During my first year at University, I was unable to obtain any formal vacation scheme placements. At the end of my second year, I applied for many training contracts, initially without any success, but was finally offered a training contract with the London office of CMS Cameron McKenna (‘CMCK’) before starting my third year at university. I remember this was an emotional time, and my advice to any students hoping to become solicitors or barristers is not to give up, find what makes you unique and sell it! Law can be competitive, but a degree from Southampton will ensure you have the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in your chosen career. Southampton also has an excellent career service with experienced staff to help you with applications and interviews.

After completing my LPC at BBP Law School in Holborn, I was lucky to have a very diverse training contract with CMCK, completing seats in their London, Bucharest and Bristol offices and also a seat in-house with MetLife Insurance. Since qualifying at a Solicitor in 2013, my career has taken many exciting twists and turns. Upon qualification, I briefly worked for MetLife Insurance, before moving to Qatar to work for international law firm Clyde & Co. After a year, I decided to return to CMCK and I am now working as an Associate in their Istanbul office for the international corporate team. I have worked in 4 countries in 5 years, so no one can say a career in law is dull or static. Law and a degree from Southampton offers a multitude of opportunities, sometimes you just have to be prepared to take the unconventional route.

Finally, the skill I developed while studying at Southampton which benefits me the most today, is the ability to keep an open mind and think outside the box, especially when trying to overcome obstacles. My tutors at Southampton actively encouraged me to develop my creative as well as academic ability, especially while writing my dissertation in my final year, and this have proven to be invaluable skill during my career to date.