Having grown up in the Granite City, Holly Hay was excited to begin her studies in her hometown at the University of Aberdeen back in 2019.
After leaving school, she decided to take a gap year to work and volunteer before deciding on her next step.
The 23-year-old explains: “My family is Aberdonian and I have lived in the city all my life. I previously attended Robert Gordon's College where I was the Dux of College and when I left I wanted to consider my career options.
“I was highly attracted to the diversity of subject areas and career options in studying law, as well as the interpersonal nature of the profession. In 2019 I was delighted to receive an unconditional offer to study Law at Aberdeen which had been my first choice.
“The School of Law's respected and consistent reputation for teaching, opportunities and related societies, as well as its unique joint Scots and English law offering, presented as a first-class university experience.”
Holly hit the ground running with her studies. But when Covid-19 hit, she had to adapt to ensure she still had the best student experience possible.
She continues: “Our year group starting in 2019 had a very unique University experience, as the majority of our undergraduate degree was significantly impacted by the unforeseeable Covid-19 pandemic.
“I also suffered some difficult times over the course of my studies due to ongoing health issues. However, I could not speak more highly of the guidance and support offered throughout by all the Law School and wider Student Support staff. They did their utmost to facilitate the continuation of my studies and provide an enjoyable and developmental University experience in spite of such challenges.”
Holly was an active member of the University community, seizing every opportunity that was presented to her.
“My biggest highlight was being nominated in my third year as the University's candidate for the UK-wide Neuberger award for law students, affiliated with one of the four Inns of Court for barristers in England and Wales.
“It was a huge privilege to be given the opportunity to represent the School of Law and University and I will remember it for years to come as an educational highlight and achievement.
“I also thoroughly enjoyed the breadth of extra-curricular opportunities on offer alongside academic studies. The University is a very friendly campus among staff and students alike and I hope to maintain the friendships and connections I had forged.
“I was a member of the voluntary/pro bono Aberdeen Law Project and I also really enjoyed keeping up my hobby of yoga through the Yoga Society.”
Now Holly is looking forward to celebrating her achievements, after gaining her Bachelors of Law with English Law Honours. And she’s excited for what the future holds beyond graduation day.
“I’m delighted to be graduating with an Honours degree in Law. This degree was my greatest academic challenge across four years of effort and commitment, with countless exams and assignments that really pushed me to the best of my ability, not least the undertaking of my dissertation in my final year.
“I can't imagine the feeling of joy and pride as I walk across the graduation stage in front of my family, my mentors and my peers - it will be the perfect way to celebrate the culmination of the last four years.
“I won't be going too far for now - my positive undergraduate experience made it a no-brainer to return to the University for my postgraduate studies! I am undertaking the Diploma in Professional Legal Practice to further develop my knowledge and skills for a career in the Scottish legal profession.
“After that I will begin my solicitor traineeship with the local base of an international commercial law firm. I am very much looking forward to embarking on this new chapter.”