Labibah, a student at Stepney All Saints Sixth Form in London, completed a paid internship at SMBC. Her experience, and support from mentor Caroline at Cherry Tree Recruitment, has helped her work towards her dream career in family law. This is her story.
For Labibah, the biggest impact of her internship was feeling like a true member of the team.
“I felt valued by my colleagues,” she explains. “They were keen to hear my opinion and views. I had a meeting with the head of my department, who told me, ‘Your brain is as good as anyone else’s here.’
“At the end of my internship, I delivered my presentation in front of the whole bank on how banks can become more sustainable. The whole legal department turned up to show their support and encouragement, as I had expressed previously how nervous I was. My supervisor James and buddy Priya even brought a sign that said, ‘You can do it’.
“Their reassurance helped me become more confident and vocal – skills that I will carry with me for the future.”
An insight to a dream career
Labibah’s internship was in the legal department at SMBC – a perfect placement for an aspiring lawyer.
“I was able to shadow solicitors in their meetings (both nationally and internationally), and when they were editing documents,” she says. “I was fascinated by how the bank works globally as well as locally, and how contracts vary depending on the country – such as following sustainability guidelines in countries that are working towards net-zero.
“I’m now better equipped with the skills for a career in law – such as attention to detail and communication.
“I also had the opportunity to network with colleagues. I asked as many questions as possible and formed as many connections as I could. This gave me an understanding of the different career routes I could consider taking.
“I learnt about the difference between working in-house or in a private firm, and what the two require. This helped me decide that in future, I’d like to work for a private firm for a couple years and gain training before moving to an in-house role.”
Helpful tips from a mentor
Labibah’s mentor Caroline Orr is a Director at Cherry Tree Recruitment.
“With Caroline’s help, I created a LinkedIn profile and a CV which will help me to stand out and capture an employer’s attention. My experience at Career Ready means I have excellent examples to add.
“Caroline also helped me learn interview skills, like being more specific with the examples I used and talking about my personal feelings and thoughts when it came to these examples.
“Now, I’m in a better position to apply for jobs, work experience, or university.”
Connections in the working world
Labibah is now preparing for A-Levels and applying for both undergraduate law degrees and solicitor degree apprenticeships. In the future, she hopes to become a fully qualified solicitor specialising in family law.
“Career Ready has made a massive impact and influence on my life,” she reflects.
“Before the programme, I didn’t have a network, or any platforms to help me connect with professionals. Now I’ve made connections that I can carry with me for advice and support.
“Without Career Ready, this would never have happened.
“Last but not least, it was how all my supervisors (James, Priya, Yukit, Deborah, Bruce and Pradeep) made sure that I was always safe and happy. I remember fondly the constant laughter and meaningful conversation that I had with Deborah and Yukit, and the kindness and purposeful conversation with Bruce and Pradeep. I’m really grateful to Helen, Frankie and Lewis for making my internship possible.”
