What were you doing before the MCL?
I completed my undergraduate studies (LL.B.) at Queen Mary, University of London, with a keen interest in commercial legal work concerning the banking and finance industry. This led me to take on an Associate role at the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), at which I came to grips with regulating complex restructuring projects and pursued several investigations into potentially fraudulent financial companies. My experience at the FCA fostered my passion for corporate legal work but more importantly, highlighted my attraction towards the commercial profession of law as compared to regulatory remits. As a result, undertaking the MCL at Cambridge seemed to be the next logical step towards becoming a solicitor.
What were your impressions of the MCL?
I firmly believe that attending the University of Cambridge allows individuals to reach an apex of academic exposure, as it stimulates one to conceptualise novel arguments and innovative, practical solutions. This is enabled by highly reputable MCL lecturers, who seek to engage with the MCL cohort in daily discourse. The faculty’s practical legal experience ensures that the programme remains resourceful and pertinent.
Given my academic and professional background, the MCL’s corporate-oriented classes enabled me to investigate further topics which previously sparked my interest, yet, which I was unable to delve into fully. Furthermore, the unique practical focus of these classes clarified many of the theoretical justifications of legal concepts I had been practically applying at the FCA. The Deals Course was especially intriguing, as it gave me a detailed insight into the economic intricacies behind corporate transactions from leading legal counsel. Lastly, the intimacy and cosmopolitan identity of the MCL cohort naturally incentivised everyone to make meaningful friendships, which made the academic experience all the more enjoyable.
What are your post-MCL plans and have they changed due to taking the MCL?
Upon graduating from Cambridge, I will be joining US law firm Paul Hastings as a trainee solicitor. Ultimately, I am confident that the MCL has equipped me with the right tools to take on the professional challenges lying ahead.
