From military to Law graduate
UCLan Law graduate, Prosper Mwedzi, has successfully completed training and established himself as an Assistant Solicitor at New Forest District Council.
Prior to studying at UCLan, Prosper worked as a Military Policeman in the British Army. In this role he came into contact with solicitors, dealt with legal representatives and interacted with the Service Prosecution Authority (military equivalent of the Crown Prosecution Service). From his time in the army, Prosper felt inspired to pursue a legal qualification at UCLan.
Achievements after graduation
Immediately following graduation in 2015, Prosper was appointed as a Trainee Conveyancer at national law firm, DC Law, where he trained to act for clients in buying and selling residential property. At this point in his career he also worked towards an accreditation from the Council of Licenced Conveyancers.
Six months later, Prosper was fortunate to secure a training contract within local government and spent two years training to be a solicitor in a shared legal department for three district councils. In June 2018, he was admitted to the roll of solicitors and has been qualified as a solicitor since then, which he cites as his greatest achievement to date.
Prosper is currently employed as an Assistant Solicitor at New Forest District Council where his role involves prosecuting on behalf of the council, advising on local government law. He also deals with data protection law.
Development opportunities
Looking back on his time at UCLan, Prosper said: “I had lots of opportunities to develop my skills and prepare myself for the future through work experience. In my second year of studies, I was lucky to get a position in litigation at a local law firm and I gained sound administrative skills. I also took up work experience with the University’s Solicitor General, which gave me exposure into commercial and corporate legal matters including drafting of contracts. Following this, I was fortunate to get an opportunity to shadow a judge at Preston Crown Court.”
Highlights of student life
Prosper further added: “I had a very good time at UCLan. One of my main highlights was taking part in the cross-examination of student nurses as part of their assessment. I also got a bursary from UCLan to travel to the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, which was very exciting. Apart from job prospects, my MLaw degree has equipped me with excellent analytical skills and I have been able to use my knowledge in law to make a difference in my personal life and in the lives of those around me.”
When asked if he has any advice for graduates and those thinking of taking up study in law, Prosper said: “Think wisely about the choices you make during study because this is what makes the difference. Study is an activity which you have control over because if you are struggling, all you have to do is increase your hours of study to improve. The jobs market is a completely different game; success is determined by the quality of skills and experience you possess. These skills cannot be acquired overnight, but rather through small leaps and bounds. Make the most of any extra time you have and invest it in developing the skills which set you apart from other candidates.”