We are delighted to share a guest post from Annie Allan, a fourth-year law student and EDI advocate, who shares her personal EDI journey towards a career in the legal profession.
A personal account of an aspiring solicitor
As a first-generation university student from a school in a deprived area, my journey to the legal profession has been shaped by challenges, triumphs, and a steadfast commitment to advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Throughout my experiences, I have learned valuable lessons that not only define my career aspirations but also fuel my passion for making a difference in the legal landscape.
Early Influences
Growing up in a community where opportunities were often scarce, I learned from an early age the harsh realities of inequality. Attending a school in a deprived area exposed me to the deep-rooted disparities that exist between those with access to privilege and those without. It wasn’t just about the material differences, like outdated textbooks or limited extracurricular programs. It was about how those disparities shaped our expectations for ourselves and each other. For many of my peers, the question wasn’t "What do I want to be when I grow up?" but "Is there even a future for me?".
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been acutely aware of the inequities around me. I witnessed my classmates fall behind due to external factors like unstable home environments, financial insecurity and a lack of academic support. These weren't just obstacles - they were often insurmountable barriers. Seeing this unfold made me question why the system wasn’t built to uplift everyone equally, and why so many young people were being left behind simply because of where they were born or the circumstances they were born into.
While my family valued the idea of hard work and perseverance, they didn’t have the first-hand experience or understanding of higher education to fully support me in this journey. As a first-generation university student, I often had to find my own way, facing challenges that others might not recognise. Beyond the walls of my home, I encountered a world where students with parents of a higher educated background seemed to glide effortlessly from one opportunity to the next. It quickly became clear that the playing field was far from level, and I would need to rely on my own determination to succeed.
Despite the lack of resources at my school, there was a turning point that forever changed my outlook on life and my role in the world. Our school introduced Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs, albeit in a modest form. These programs were intended to create more inclusive classrooms, educate students about the value of diversity, and help bridge the achievement gap. Although small in scale, these initiatives planted a seed within me that grew into a lifelong passion for social justice.
These early encounters with EDI taught me the value of visibility and the power of inclusion. They also illuminated the deep inequalities embedded in our educational system. It wasn’t enough to give everyone access to the same classroom; real equity meant providing the resources, support, and opportunities necessary for all students to thrive. The students in my school needed more than just an open door - they needed someone to hold their hand to help them walk through it.Â
The Financial and Emotional Struggles
One of the biggest challenges I faced was the financial burden. While grants provided some relief, the pressure to manage expenses was constant. For many students from more privileged backgrounds, university was a full-time experience - filled with social clubs, societies, and unpaid internships. For me, it was a delicate balancing act between studying and working part-time jobs to support myself.
This dual responsibility often left me feeling isolated. While others seemed to have the freedom to fully immerse themselves in academic and social opportunities, I had to carefully budget my time and energy. This difference in experience highlighted the stark disparities in university life - something many first-generation students from less advantaged backgrounds can relate to.
Emotional resilience became my greatest asset. There were times I felt like an outsider, unsure if I truly belonged in a world so different from the one I’d come from. Impostor syndrome often crept in, especially in the early years. It wasn’t just about keeping up with coursework; it was about grappling with the overwhelming sense of being in a space that didn’t seem built for someone like me.
Overcoming Academic Challenges
In addition to the financial and emotional hurdles, there were academic challenges as well. Coming from a school with fewer resources meant that I often had to work harder to bridge gaps in knowledge compared to my peers who had attended prestigious or well-funded schools. Things that seemed second nature to some students, like essay writing or independent research, were skills I had to hone while navigating the pressures of university life.
But these challenges didn’t hold me back for long. I was determined to prove, to myself and others, that I was just as capable. I threw myself into learning, spending countless hours in the library, seeking help from tutors, and making use of every resource available. Slowly but surely, I began to see that while my journey to higher education might have been more challenging than others, it also made me more resilient, adaptable, and resourceful.
Navigating higher education as a first-generation student from a deprived area was far from easy, but it was a journey that strengthened my resolve and clarified my purpose. The lessons I learned during this time - about resilience, community, and advocacy—continue to shape my career and my commitment to EDI today.
Higher education opened doors for me, but it also revealed the deep inequalities that exist within the system. My mission now is to help create an environment where students from all backgrounds can thrive without having to fight against the odds. Through my work in the legal field and my ongoing advocacy for EDI, I hope to contribute to a world where equity isn’t just an ideal but a reality for all.
Working with Citizens Advice
During my studies, I had the opportunity to volunteer with Citizens Advice, where I gained invaluable insights into the importance of access to legal resources for marginalised communities. This role reinforced my belief that everyone deserves equal access to justice, regardless of their background or circumstances.
At Citizens Advice, I worked closely with clients facing various legal issues, from housing disputes to employment rights. Each case illuminated the systemic barriers that individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds often encounter. I witnessed firsthand how economic disparities, cultural differences, and lack of resources could impact a person's ability to seek justice. This experience fuelled my passion for EDI and solidified my commitment to advocating for those who felt unheard or marginalised.
Embracing Leadership Roles
Through my involvement in various EDI initiatives, I was fortunate to connect with influential leaders in the legal field. One significant experience was participating in National Inclusion Week, where I had the honour of interviewing Sheila Webster, the then-president of the Law Society of Scotland. As the sixth female president in almost 75 years, Sheila embodies the spirit of progress and empowerment that resonates deeply with me.
Our conversation highlighted the importance of mentorship and representation in the legal profession. Sheila's journey and commitment to gender equality inspired me to embrace my own leadership potential. I recognised that by sharing my story and advocating for inclusivity, I could inspire others who faced similar challenges.
The Impact of Networking and Mentorship within Diversity+
Networking has played a crucial role in my journey, enabling me to connect with individuals who share my passion for EDI. The Diversity+ Law Academy, in particular, has been invaluable in this regard. Through the Academy, I’ve had the opportunity to shape initiatives and attend networking events, where I could learn directly from industry leaders and gain insights into the unique challenges and opportunities within the legal profession. The experience has enriched my understanding of EDI in law, equipped me with practical knowledge, and connected me with peers and mentors who continue to inspire and guide me.
I have been fortunate to meet numerous mentors through these connections, who have offered invaluable guidance and encouragement as I navigate my career path. Their support has been instrumental, reminding me of the importance of fostering diversity through mentorship. I am committed to giving back by mentoring others who may be facing similar challenges.
The Diversity+ Law Academy is a transformative initiative designed to promote inclusivity within the legal profession. It offers aspiring lawyers from diverse backgrounds the chance to engage with industry experts, participate in workshops, and connect with like-minded peers. Through these opportunities, participants gain valuable insights into the legal field, develop essential skills, and build meaningful networks that support their professional growth. The D+ Law Academy is truly remarkable for its commitment to creating a more equitable legal landscape, empowering future leaders to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion in their careers. For anyone passionate about making a difference, the Diversity+ Law Academy is an unmissable experience.
Future Aspirations
My ultimate goal is to work in a capacity that allows me to influence policies and practices that promote inclusivity and equity in the legal system. I believe that systemic change is essential to dismantling the barriers that hinder marginalised communities from accessing justice. By actively participating in discussions around EDI and advocating for inclusive policies, I hope to contribute to a legal profession that reflects the diverse society we live in.
My journey towards a career in law has been a testament to the power of perseverance, advocacy, and the belief that change is possible. As a first-generation university student navigating the complexities of the legal field, I have learned that the path to equity, diversity, and inclusion is not always easy, but it is profoundly rewarding.
I am dedicated to continuing my advocacy for underrepresented voices and working towards a more equitable legal landscape. Through mentorship, networking, and active engagement in EDI initiatives, I hope to inspire others to join the movement for change. Together, we can create a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed, regardless of their background.
About the author
Annie Allan is a dedicated fourth-year law student at Glasgow Caledonian University with a passion for promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion within the legal profession. As a case manager at the university’s law clinic, Annie has honed her legal skills by managing complex cases and advocating for clients, ensuring access to justice for underrepresented individuals.
Her commitment to supporting vulnerable communities extends beyond academia, as she actively volunteers with Citizens Advice, offering guidance to those facing urgent legal and personal challenges, and with Dogs Trust, showcasing her care and compassion for animal welfare.
Annie is also a proud member of the Diversity+ Law Academy, an initiative established in September 2024 to empower students and graduates that have faced barriers. Through this project, Annie has developed key professional skills and broadened her opportunities, aligning with her ambition to secure a traineeship and contribute meaningfully to the legal profession.
Thank you Annie for sharing your inspirational journey. We always welcome guest blogs from those willing to share their personal EDI experiences. Reach out to us at hello@diversityplus.info if you would like to share your story.
Our project D+ in the Classroom is designed to help students like Annie feel supported in their legal career journey, from high school onwards. To read more information on this initiative, please click here.
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