Subjective subjects
24/11/2009
Dear Oracle...
I'm currently at high school deciding which subjects to take for my A Levels. I'm hoping to join the legal profession in the future, so I want to choose subjects that will impress recruiters. What should I pick to give me the edge?
The Oracle replies
First off, it's great that you are thinking about your career at such an early stage. You've got a head start over some of the competition, so be sure to take full advantage. Start now with your research into the profession and try to get some work experience in law firms and chambers.
In terms of which A Levels to take, opting for the subjects you enjoy and excel in would be your best bet. Achieving excellent grades is fundamental if you want to train as a lawyer. There are usually high minimum academic requirements on law firm applications, so you should be aiming for As and Bs.
Although the subjects you choose are less important than your grades, it is worth bearing in mind that law is an intellectually demanding career. For this reason, academic subjects will impress legal recruiters the most. If you really want to take a subject such as PE, it might be good to combine it with, for example, history, English or science to demonstrate your intellectual ability. It's also worth noting that law A Level is not obligatory and will not necessarily afford you any advantages.
