Little fish in the big City

On the basis that gaining true experience is invaluable, for the past nine months I have been working as a paralegal part time, while also studying the part-time LPC at The University of Law. Entering the real world of work straight after university was a shock to my system, especially having to wave good bye to the lie-ins, alcohol and freedom. I hadn't realised that having a social life while working and studying was a complete fantasy - although I would add that I couldn't be more grateful to be in the position that I now am!

I had previously worked in high-street firms and I have to say that the difference between them and the City firm I'm now at is shocking. The previous firm I worked in was a conveyancing firm with demanding hours, little pay and a broken fan to keep me cool through the summer. Things are quite different now! But it is crucial to remember that the skills gained at either type of firm are transferable - every firm has a printer! - and working to deadlines means that in either case, you'll have no chance of leaving the office until the early hours of the morning.

I feel that this is the stage of my career when tedious jobs must be embraced with open arms - I need to be willing to take on any task that I am given. Being a paralegal in a small corporate firm allows me to engage in tasks that develop skills other than those that are purely legal, such as how to dispose of our broken printer in the cheapest way possible. I used sound business acumen in my decision to advertise the printer for free on Freegle, as opposed to paying a recycling company to do it.

However, the tedious tasks come with the chance for more serious involvement; I feel that the firm is discovering my potential. It has been established in this country for about 18 months, and is well known internationally, giving me the opportunity to watch the firm grow while my career grows with it. I have worked on film productions, commercial disputes and insolvency cases, and in each I was given an important role. I am not afraid of challenging work; it allows me to increase my knowledge and make a lasting impression on the firm.

Showing gratitude also takes you a long way. One secretary at work has guided me through situations that I could not have predicted I would need to know about, such as never come into the office with chipped nail varnish. Another tip I would share is the need to have some essentials in my desk drawer - heels, make-up and mints spring to mind!

Jobs such as mine have become a common way for people to try and get a foot in the door, especially as getting a training contract becomes ever harder. I applied for 30 jobs a day for three months, and I did not rest until I was satisfied that I had made enough applications. Although I achieved a first class honours LLB, my CV is not the best one around (especially my A-level and GCSE grades) and I knew that I would have to achieve something outstanding to be recognised. Despite being in the same position as many students and graduates in the fight to gain a training contract, I love getting the train into London every day, wearing a suit and living a corporate life as a paralegal.

Amneek Binning is a paralegal. Follow her at @paralegallife.