Why Students Should Join the Diversity+ Law Academy

In this article, hear first hand from one of our 2025/26 Diversity+ Law Academy students, Shilan Ucak, about her experience in the academy and what she gained from the experience.

I still remember applying to the Diversity+ Law Academy and feeling nervous. I did not know whether I would get in or what the Academy would involve. But my interview with Naeema quickly changed that. It felt less like a formal interview and more like a genuine conversation. I left the interview thinking how kind and welcoming Naeema had been, and hoping even more that I would be offered a place. I had decided to apply because I had met Naeema when I went to shadow another lawyer, Iain Smith. Seeing a woman who reminded me of myself in the legal profession stayed with me. I think that moment highlights why representation matters so much.

Academy 2025/26 Graduation celebration

Seeing the profession differently

When I first joined the Diversity+ Law Academy, I was still learning how to see myself within the legal profession. I knew I wanted a career in law, but there were times when the profession felt intimidating and difficult to access. As the first person in my family to pursue higher education, I was trying to build confidence while also understanding where I fit in.

Over the course of the Academy, that perspective changed. Being in spaces where representation and different lived experiences were valued helped me see the profession differently. It reminded me that there is no single type of person who belongs in law, and that there is no single route into the profession.

The Academy also helped me recognise that the experiences which have shaped me are not something to minimise. They are part of what I bring with me. A year on, I can see how much my mindset has shifted. At the beginning of the year, I had a traineeship interview and, looking back, I can see that I walked into it already doubting myself. More recently, I had another interview, but this time I approached it with far more confidence.

That change happened from being exposed to professional environments, listening to conversations about different routes into law, and realising that confidence is built through experience. I joined the Academy feeling nervous and unsure, but I left with a stronger belief that there is space for people like me in the profession.

The importance of being in rooms that encourage you

One of the most valuable parts of the Diversity+ Law Academy was the environment it created. As students, we are often told to network, attend events and put ourselves forward, but that can feel overwhelming when you don’t know where to begin. The Academy offered a chance to participate in workshops, insight events, and professional development sessions, all within a supportive setting.

Before attending the Academy, professional events often felt intimidating. It was easy to worry about asking the wrong question or to feel as though everyone else understood the profession better than I did. The Academy helped take away some of that pressure. Through insight events with law firms, we were able to meet legal professionals in a more approachable setting. This made it easier to ask questions and learn from people already working in the profession.

What stood out to me most was how honest and approachable the legal professionals were. They shared practical advice and their own personal reflections on working in law. This made the sessions feel genuine and useful, particularly because professional development can feel overwhelming when you are trying to navigate it alone.

Building practical skills

One of the biggest benefits of Diversity+ Law Academy was that it helped me understand how to turn my experiences into something I could communicate clearly in applications, interviews and professional settings.

Through CV and application workshops, I learned how to present my experience with more clarity and purpose. Before the Academy, I sometimes found it difficult to explain the value of the work, volunteering, and community involvement I had taken part in. The workshops helped me see that these experiences were not separate from my legal development, but part of the skills and perspective I could bring to the profession.

The mock interview sessions were very useful. They helped me structure my answers more effectively and gave me greater confidence when articulating my motivation for a career in law. The feedback I received after each mock interview was also very helpful, as it enabled me to reflect and make meaningful improvements. They showed me that strong interviews are not just about confidence, but about preparation, reflection and knowing how to explain your experiences clearly.

The Academy also encouraged me to think more carefully about how I present myself professionally. Sessions on social media, communication and public speaking helped me reflect on the importance of being clear and intentional in how I engage with others.

Guidance that makes the journey less lonely

Another important part of the Academy was the mentoring. I was paired with Brianella Scott, and having someone in the profession to speak to on a monthly basis made an incredible difference for me.

What I valued most was having someone I could update, ask questions and learn from. I also learned that mentoring works best when you come prepared. By bringing questions, updates and goals to each meeting, I was able to make the most of Brianella’s advice.

For students who do not already have legal connections, this is the support that helps immensely. It can be difficult to know who to ask, what steps to take or whether you are approaching things in the right way. Having a mentor made the journey feel less overwhelming and showed me how guidance makes a difference.

Why you should take the chance on Diversity+ Law Academy

For any student considering applying to the Diversity+ Law Academy, my advice is to apply. The Academy is not only for students who already feel polished or certain about their next steps. It is for students who are willing to learn, reflect and make the most of the opportunities in front of them.

What makes the Academy so valuable is that it gives you access to people and guidance that can help you understand the legal profession beyond university. It also places you around people who genuinely want to see you grow and succeed.

Looking back, I am very glad I applied. The version of me who submitted that application was nervous and unsure. A year later, I can see how much I have grown, not only in confidence, but in how I understand myself and my place in the legal profession.

You do not need to have everything figured out. You just need to be willing to learn, show up and take the opportunity seriously.

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Calling all firms and organisations: We are actively looking for more sponsors to support the Diversity+ Law Academy. If you think your firm could help or you want to learn more, reach out to us at hello@diversityplus.info or read more about the academy here.

If you are interested in joining the Diversity+ Law Academy, follow us on LinkedIn for updates on our next intake.