Scholarships, sacrifice, and success: one Law alumna’s journey
Tilly Twite (Law LLB, 2019) proves that there’s more than one way to thrive in the legal profession, thanks to resilience, determination, and vital support from the University of Leeds, School of Law.
Breaking into a niche field
After graduating from the School of Law with an undergraduate degree in Law in 2019, Tilly Twite didn't immediately jump into a career in law, instead, she worked in a restaurant before applying for a Legal Assistant role in the Proceeds of Crime Department at Cohen Cramer Solicitors in Leeds, now part of Ison Harrison Solicitors.
“I have worked in POCA for 5 years now, since starting. It is a really niche, specialist area of law… It involves calculating what financial benefit a Defendant has obtained from the convicted offence. It also involves determining what a Defendant has available to them, to pay back the benefit amount that is determined.”
Overcoming financial barriers
For Tilly, her journey into law was shaped not by choice but by circumstance. With an impressive A*, A*, A at A-level, she secured a scholarship to study Law at the University of Leeds, graduating with a 2:1. A second scholarship from the College of Legal Practice funded her Solicitors Qualifying Examinations (SQE) preparation courses.
Tilly said, “I have always wanted to become a solicitor. Having said this, my route into law has always been led by circumstances, mainly financial…”.
If these two scholarship opportunities were not available to me, I am not sure if my career into law would have really taken off. I would have made it work without, but it would have taken a lot longer than it has to get where I am currently.
Balancing work and study
Studying for the SQE while working full time demanded careful planning. Tilly’s advice to others taking these exams:
In terms of studying and working full time, it is just about being extremely organised, dedicated and resilient… I always say it is short-term sacrifice for long-term satisfaction. You have to keep the end goal in sight at all times.
Her employer’s flexibility, allowing time off for exams and daytime seminars, proved invaluable.
Keys to SQE success
Tilly passed both parts of the SQE on her first attempt (something just 60% of candidates manage), which she credits to disciplined organisation. She told us, “being so organised would be my number 1 top tip. Also, following the timetable set by the College of Legal Practice really helped… Half of the battle is having a plan in place. You cannot just sail through the SQE exams without putting the work in.”
The Leeds Factor
Tilly describes her time at Leeds as “instrumental” in shaping her journey.
All of the tutors were fantastic and extremely knowledgeable and passionate… Professor Peter Whelan also opened up the door for me in terms of legal work experience. He gave me the opportunity to do work experience at the Crown Prosecution Service, for achieving the highest grade in my cohort in criminal law. This really ignited my passion and made it feel like getting into law, coming from the working-class background that I do, was really possible.
She also praises Marika Hildebrandova’s employment support, which helped her progress in her career.
Advice for aspiring solicitors
Tilly wants students to know there’s no single route into law. “There is no one size fits all… We need diverse representation within the legal profession. I always used to tell myself, ‘never let the fear of striking out, keep you from playing the game’.”
There are various different routes for a reason, I would not say any route is ‘traditional’ anymore. Do what works best for you.
Looking ahead and giving back
Tilly hopes to qualify as a solicitor within Ison Harrison’s Criminal Department this year, before pursuing her Police Station Representative Accreditation, Magistrates’ Court Qualification, and Higher Rights of Audience.
I am more than happy to assist and support others where I can with their legal journey… My LinkedIn inbox is open for anyone. No question is too small to ask!
Your future in law starts here
Tilly’s story shows that success in the legal profession can come from many different paths. At the University of Leeds, School of Law, we’re here to support your journey, through expert teaching, tailored guidance, and opportunities like scholarships and work experience.
Explore our Undergraduate programmes and take the first step toward a career that’s uniquely yours.
