What volunteering were you involved with whilst you were at UCL?
I was a volunteer with the Citizenship and Crime Project, which was a schools-based project, working with groups of 10-11 year olds, and doing quizzes, mini courtroom dramas and activities in order to widen their awareness of the criminal justice system and their rights and duties as young citizens. The VSU also helped me become a switchboard volunteer at Childline.
What useful skills and experiences did you gain as a volunteer when you were at UCL?
There is nothing quite like the challenge of justifying the who, why, where, what of the legal system to an inquisitive and enthusiastic ten year old! I also learnt about responding quickly and effectively to new situations and challenges, and received some training in child protection.
How has volunteering helped you in your career so far?
Working with children in local schools from diverse backgrounds, and also dealing with often distressed children and parents at Childline, helped me to understand the emotional stresses that my clients in my current job are facing. Being quick on your feet is an invaluable skill as a barrister, especially in the area of family law.
What would you say to UCL students considering whether or not to volunteer?
I would urge students to give it a try – you can give as little or as much time as you feel able, you will meet new people, gain unique experience which is hard find elsewhere and be rewarded with new opportunities.