Why did you choose to study at Aberdeen?
I was very impressed with the university when visiting it on an open day whilst at High School. It also has one of the best law schools in the UK.
Why did you choose your particular course?
Whilst not necessary driven to become a lawyer, I knew that a law degree from Aberdeen would be challenging and very useful when trying to pursue a career, whatever the industry.
What did you most enjoy about your time at Aberdeen? Did you have any particularly memorable student experiences?
Without a doubt, the people I met at Aberdeen made my time there very special. Many continue to be my best friends to this day. One of the most memorable experiences I have was visiting the student institution known as Liquid and meeting my now fiancé!
If talking to a group of prospective students, what advice would you give them to help them make the most of their time at the University of Aberdeen?
Get involved as much as possible! Join sport clubs and societies: Say yes to things when you cannot be bothered: Study hard for your exams and achieve your potential. Your time at Aberdeen Uni should be some of the best and most memorable days of your life!
Your Time After Aberdeen
What was the title of your first job after graduating from Aberdeen?
Trainee Solicitor
What did your first role involve?
Learning the ins and outs of becoming a solicitor. This involved completing four six month rotations within the law firm and passing various competencies. There were many long days spent by a photocopier/printer!
Who was your first employer?
Pinsent Masons LLP.
What is your current job title?
Professional Rugby Player.
Who is your current employer?
Brumbies Rugby Club.
What is your current role?
Playing rugby union for the Brumbies in the Super Rugby competition. We play against teams from NZ, South Africa, Japan and Argentina.
What is your current location?
Canberra, Australia.
Please briefly describe the journey from your first job after graduating to where you are now
After finishing at Aberdeen University in 2012, I began my legal traineeship with Pinsent Masons LLP in Edinburgh and completed it in 2014. I then went travelling around Australia before settling in Melbourne and starting a job with a law firm based in the city. I signed my first professional rugby contract with the Melbourne Rebels in 2016. I then moved to New Zealand where I played for Northland in the Mitre 10 Cup and the Hurricanes in Super Rugby for the 2018 season. Most recently, I moved back to Australia to take up a two year contract with the Brumbies, based in Canberra for 2019 and 2020.
Was your degree at Aberdeen essential for getting to where you are now? If so, in what way?
It has not been essential for my rugby career but I am sure that once I retire from playing it will be very useful in whatever career I choose to pursue.
One Top Tip
Do not be put off by failing. I received a number of rejections from law firms before getting a traineeship and I was told by some rugby coaches that I was not good enough to become a professional. Good things take time. So, maintain your resilience - if you are willing to work hard and persevere, your success will come.
