What’s your background, and why did you decide to do the SQE?

I am a career changer. I previously worked in human rights and public policy for 6 years before making the decision to move into law. The law was something I was always interested in, but before pursuing it I wanted to work in different areas that interested me. When I made the decision to finally commit to law, I learnt of the new SQE route that I would have to do. That’s why I decided to sit the SQE1 assessment. Before that, I spent 8 months or so doing the PGDL, which I found really helped when it came to revising for the foundational legal knowledge required in for the SQE1 assessment.

How did you prepare, and what made the biggest difference in your success?

As mentioned, I undertook a PGDL and then SQE1 Preparation course at BPP University. As someone with no prior legal qualification, these were instrumental in providing a structured approach to learning, applying and then revising all FLK material for the SQE1 assessment.

Aside from this, my personal preparation entailed a rigid study plan in the 2 months leading up to the assessment. The first 2 weeks involved using my notes and doing MCQs in all the FLK subjects to see where my strengths and weaknesses were. Following this, I developed a study plan geared towards my weakest areas at the beginning and then the strongest areas closest to the exam. In the few weeks leading up to the SQE1 assessment, I was making sure my revision involved doing at least 50 MCQs a day in the FLK subjects I was studying that particular day.

I firmly believe that this meticulous approach, which incorporated MCQs from as many different providers (including Law Drills!) from the beginning was the biggest contributor to my results in the SQE1 assessment.

What was the hardest part, and how did you push through?

The hardest part was definitely keeping the stamina going throughout the intense preparation period – especially the closer it got to the assessment. Compounding this was those awful days where nothing seemingly would go in and you would get all the MCQs wrong! These moments were the worst as the self-doubt and desire to give up really kicked in.

I pushed through my remembering the wider goal I have in mind, and the reasons why I decided to pursue law in the first place – of which sitting these assessments was a necessary step! Equally, the support of my family, friends and loved ones in these moments was a guiding light.

Ultimately, when you face these moments remember that the process is a marathon not a sprint. Burn out is a real factor to contend with. Key to overcoming this is fitting in micro- breaks into your revision schedule and sticking to them. You’re brain needs a recharge to excel after all!

If you had to do it again, what would you do differently?

Knowing what I know now, I definitely would spend less time on internet forums reading about how hard the exam was. It is true that the SQE1 is no joke – but with meticulous planning, dedication and energy committed, everyone serious enough is capable of excelling. Aside from this, I would have also bought textbooks from different providers to supplement the knowledge provided by my own. And I would have done this early in the process. This would ensure that I can cover all potential bases for the exam.

Any final piece of advice?

Following the above, please do not heighten your anxieties around the exam by spending too long on internet forums. Each person’s circumstances and approach to the exam is unique. Particularly the closer you get to the exam, it is important to maintain tunnel vision till the finish line.

The SQE assessment is challenging. There is no doubt about that. This is something the sector and all candidates know. However, anyone with the willpower and dedication is capable of success in it. Do not get bogged down in pass rate stories, or trick questions etc.