Katie Brooks joined MB Associates to gain work experience, then became a regular member of the team before the skills she’d honed enabled her to land her dream role at a property firm where she hopes to eventually become a lawyer…
Meet Katie Brooks, a 20-year-old from Cheam who started her journey with MB Associates at just 14. From school work experience to university, she’s now landed a coveted role at Glover’s Solicitors in London, largely thanks to the experience she gained working for MB Associates.
Thanks to Monica’s mentorship, Katie has honed her admin and paralegal skills, paving the way for a future in property law. Her experience at MB Associates gave her the edge to secure a prestigious position, all while feeling supported and valued in the workplace. This is her story…
‘Starting a career can be a challenging yet exciting adventure, especially when you begin at a young age. I was fortunate enough to get an early start through a high school work experience programme that not only shaped my professional aspirations but also provided me with invaluable skills and experiences along the way.
‘It all began in Year 10 when my school offered a two-week work experience programme. I knew that I wanted to be in an office setting to learn transferable skills that would benefit me in any job. Admin work seemed like the most beneficial route, so I chose to spend my two weeks at MB Associates.
Work experience at MB Associates
‘From the moment I walked into the office, I felt welcomed. Shadowing experienced professionals like Lesley, Kirsty, and Helen was incredibly educational. They explained everything so well that I picked up tasks quickly. I remember feeling like everyone treated me like family; perhaps it was because I was so young, and they were all eager to help me grow. Monica was a larger-than-life figure – both nurturing and inspiring. She genuinely cared about everyone in the office and took a personal interest in my life, which made me feel comfortable and valued.
Transitioning from school to professional life
‘At the end of my work experience, I was thrilled when they asked if I wanted to stay on and work part-time. Balancing school and work, I began spending a few hours every week at the office. It was perfect for me – a structured routine in a supportive and professional environment. When exam season arrived, Kirsty and Monica encouraged me to prioritise my education, allowing me the flexibility I needed to succeed academically.
University and career progression
‘When I went to university to study law with criminology, I continued working at MB Associates. However, I eventually decided to focus solely on law as I found it more engaging. Working at MB Associates has given me practical experience that sets me apart from my peers.
‘I recently secured a one-year placement role at Glover’s Solicitors in London, a commercial property firm. During my trial day, I was familiar with the terminology and tasks, thanks to my experience at MB Associates. The firm was impressed by my extensive experience at such a young age, highlighting the transferable skills I had developed. The reason I got the job was because of my experience at Monica’s. They said: ‘No one your age has this much experience – we can’t NOT hire you!’.
The impact of early work experience
‘Working at MB Associates not only equipped me with practical skills but also boosted my confidence. Tasks like converting paper files to an online system and managing diaries became second nature. Additionally, making phone calls – a task that intimidates many of my peers – was encouraged there, helping me become confident in my communication abilities.
Future career goals
‘Being at MB Associates has helped me realise my passion for property law. I performed best in property-related modules at university, which I attribute to my background at MB Associates. My ultimate goal is to become a partner in a firm.
‘My time there has been nothing short of transformative. The warmth and support from everyone in the office made me feel welcome and valued despite being the youngest member of the team. This experience has moulded my career aspirations and prepared me for future success.
‘If you’re a young professional or student looking for career guidance or opportunities, I highly recommend seeking out work experience programmes. You never know where those initial steps might lead you.’
More information
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