Interviewer: Celeste, congratulations once again on passing the SQE2 exam. Where were you when you found out you passed?
Celeste: Thank you. I received my SQE results on 22 August last year, as I participated in the April sitting.
Interviewer: I can imagine you were thrilled. Can you tell us about your preparation journey? How long did it take you from start to finish?
Celeste: Sure. My journey might be a bit unconventional. I began with the QLTS because I’m a qualified lawyer in China. I took the last round of MCT and passed it. To continue with the QLTS route, I needed to pass SQE2 by the end of 2023. After passing MCT in July 2021, I took a pause to understand how the SQE was going to unfold and its structure. I officially started my SQE2 preparations in September 2022, about seven months before my SQE2 sitting.
Interviewer: Okay, and what was your primary focus during these seven months? Were you primarily revisiting the books, doing 1-to-1 mocks, or something else?
Celeste: Well, I tailored my study plan to accommodate my full-time job. In the initial four months, I dedicated most of my time to revisiting all the SQE materials and modules, with a particular emphasis on criminal law and other areas likely to be tested in SQE2. Once I felt confident with that, I transitioned to doing mock tests regularly. Practically every day, I immersed myself in mock tests to identify and address any knowledge gaps. This helped me refine my language skills, understand how to structure my answers effectively, and optimise my time management during the exam.
Interviewer: So, you focused a lot on SQE mock exams.
Celeste: Absolutely. I found them incredibly valuable for my preparation.
Interviewer: Good. Among those SQE2 mock sessions, both oral and written, which would you say were the most helpful? Which ones were indispensable for your learning process?
Celeste: I would definitely say oral assessments were the most beneficial for me. I faced challenges with oral exams, especially in advocacy, as I lacked practical experience in UK litigation. The tight timeframes made it even more daunting. However, through several mock tests, I gained valuable insights. These sessions equipped me with the right mindset, effective time management strategies, and techniques to structure my answers. They taught me how to present points that examiners would appreciate and provided feedback on various aspects. This systematic and structured approach was immensely helpful in my learning journey.
Interviewer: Alright, it’s great to hear about your approach to mock exams and how you utilised feedback effectively. It seems like a solid strategy. Moving on, you mentioned the importance of starting with the MCT to gain a foundational understanding of English law, especially since you didn’t have an academic background in it. Could you elaborate on how this preparation for the MCT influenced your confidence level going into the SQE2?
Celeste: Absolutely. Beginning with the MCT was pivotal for me, considering my lack of prior exposure to English law. It provided a crucial opportunity to familiarise myself with the fundamental concepts of English law modules. Building this strong foundation during SQE1 or MCT proved invaluable, as it significantly reduced the amount of time needed to grasp concepts during SQE2 preparation. Essentially, by laying this groundwork early on, I was able to approach SQE2 with confidence, knowing that I already had a solid understanding of the basics and could focus on honing my skills and expanding my knowledge further.
Interviewer: Alright, so for our audience it’s important to clarify that you build upon the foundational knowledge provided in the first level, such as the MCT for you and the SQE1 for others. In addition to this knowledge base, you undergo practical training, involving both written and oral assessments, consistently revisiting these assessments and incorporating feedback from interviewers or solicitors. Right. Okay. Besides this, what other activities did you engage in? Did you participate in our SQE group sessions or webinars? Do you recall those? Because we organise sessions with SQE2 candidates where solicitors engage in discussions. Typically, two solicitors explore fundamental topics likely to appear in the exam. Did you attend any of these?
Celeste: Yes, I attended nearly every single one, including the Legal Theater sessions. I found all of them very beneficial in various ways. The seminar group sessions with the solicitors were particularly insightful. They presented real cases and then facilitated discussions on how to address the issues, move forward, and so forth. It was a practical way to learn and think. Moreover, interacting with other students allowed me to see different perspectives on these topics, which I may not have considered initially. The solicitors provided valuable feedback during these discussions, making it a highly interactive and systematic learning experience.
Interviewer: When you compared yourself and your knowledge with those other SQE students, did you feel intimidated? Did you feel that you were on the same level, or did you experience different emotions?
Celeste: Initially, I was quite apprehensive. Having been away from academic studies, especially in the realm of MCT for almost two years, I was afraid I might be behind. However, upon attending sessions and tutorials, I realised I was more competent than I had thought. I found myself confidently answering questions and realising I was quite knowledgeable. This realisation boosted my confidence significantly. Additionally, observing my peers allowed me to benchmark my progress. I could see that I was performing well and simply needed to stay focused and continue pushing forward. It reaffirmed that I was indeed on the right track.
Interviewer: It sounds like you were very engaged in the discussions. Did you actively participate by offering answers when encouraged?
Celeste: Absolutely, I made it a point to volunteer myself for nearly every question. Eventually, I realised I might have been speaking too much and needed to dial it back a bit. Nonetheless, I firmly believe that active participation leads to greater learning. Putting yourself out there, despite any fear of judgment, is key. In our discussions, I found there was no judgment from others; everyone was appreciative of my contributions. By actively engaging, you not only learn the material better but also remember the answers and feedback received firsthand.
Interviewer: Excellent. So, another essential component of success is participating in SQE group sessions, right? And particularly, engaging in active learning, not just passively listening, but actively learning and generating content. Earlier, you mentioned Legal Theatre, a project maintained and launched by the Academy of Smart Lawyers. How did Legal Theatre contribute to your preparation for the SQE2?
Celeste: Absolutely, Legal Theatre proved immensely beneficial to my preparation. Firstly, the mock sessions were challenging, but I saw them as invaluable learning opportunities. I placed myself in the shoes of the interviewee, considering how I would respond to the questions posed. This allowed me to effectively conduct another mock test, even if I wasn’t physically participating. Secondly, observing how other participants presented themselves during interviews was enlightening. While their styles may have differed from mine, I gleaned useful insights from each interaction, which I then incorporated into my own approach moving forward. Overall, I found the experience incredibly beneficial.
Interviewer: So, the concept behind this project was providing candidates with the opportunity to observe real-life interviews unfold authentically, without rehearsals. They witness stumbling, occasional failures to elicit information, and mistakes, all while learning from them. This learning extends to the audience as well. They observe without fear or risk, as they’re not the ones being scrutinised. It creates a low-risk environment for everyone involved, fostering a valuable learning experience.
Celeste: Absolutely.
Interviewer: Thank you. That was truly insightful. Now, I’d like to touch upon a crucial aspect: language proficiency in the SQE. Occasionally, we notice candidates facing challenges in expressing themselves fluently and accurately in written English, particularly in the context of professional or technical discourse. Could you share any insights or suggestions for candidates considering SQE1 or SQE2, especially regarding language proficiency?
Celeste: English isn’t my first language, so I can really relate to people who struggle with speaking or writing in English. Fortunately, since I work in the UK, English is sort of my working language. I also work as a trainee solicitor, so I know how to phrase my thoughts and present my ideas in mock tests. However, I found that when I wrote my answers, I didn’t structure them clearly. Sometimes they could be misleading or misunderstood by those reading them. So, I would encourage people, especially those whose first language isn’t English, to conduct as many SQE2 mock tests as possible. Also, it’s not just about doing the mock test once. If you do it once, that’s okay, but then leave it alone for a couple of weeks. You can always come back and do it again and again. You’ll always find something you forgot, and that’s where you can learn.
Interviewer: So, you mean that you can learn from mock exams in two ways: you can learn legally, and for non-native speakers of English, you can also learn the appropriate language for these situations.
Celeste: Yes. Right.
Interviewer: General, do you believe that non-native English speakers should consider the adequacy of their English proficiency before preparing for the SQE? Should they focus on enhancing their legal English or overall language skills? What’s your opinion on this matter?
Celeste: I believe it varies. For instance, university students have the luxury of time to elevate their language proficiency. They should continuously strive to improve their English skills as much as possible. However, for most candidates planning to undertake SQE1 or SQE2 exams, dedicating extensive time solely to English practice might not be efficient. It’s crucial to immerse oneself in SQE preparation to grasp proper legal English effectively. Personally, I realised my English wasn’t proficient when I commenced my MCT studies. But through consistent reading, listening, and practice, my language skills significantly improved. Therefore, immersion in SQE preparation is key to mastering legal English.
Interviewer: Alright. You’ve mentioned already that you’re a foreign-qualified lawyer.
Celeste: Yes.
Interviewer: That implies you had an established career prior to the SQE assessments. Could you tell us about your previous role and what you’re doing now?
Celeste: Absolutely. I arrived in the UK in 2018 to pursue my second master’s degree in law. Before that, I worked as a junior judge in my home country, a role akin to a district judge in the UK, specialising in civil litigation within a county court. I spent five years honing my skills in this field before pursuing further education in the UK. Upon completing my studies, I joined a law firm here, where I provide legal counsel to a UK investment bank. Additionally, I serve as a team lead, overseeing a team of five. In this capacity, I conduct training sessions, address queries, and support my team members in their professional development pursuits.
Interviewer: Interviewer: Could you elaborate on how passing the SQE2 has impacted your career? Have you noticed any significant changes in your professional life?
Celeste: I’m grateful you raised this point because passing the SQE2 has truly been a game-changer for me. It’s opened up numerous career avenues that were previously inaccessible. Since achieving this milestone, I’ve found myself presented with a plethora of job opportunities, granting me the freedom to select roles aligned with my aspirations and interests. Prior to passing the SQE, my options were significantly restricted. So, embracing the challenge and successfully passing the SQE2 has undoubtedly expanded my horizons and empowered me to pursue fulfilling career paths.
Interviewer: We’re all genuinely happy for you. Your journey to study and switch professional fields involved considerable sacrifices, and it’s heartening to see your efforts rewarded. You arrived in the UK, embarked on your studies, prepared for SQE exams – it’s been quite the journey. Now, experiencing this sense of fulfillment must make it all worthwhile.
Celeste: Absolutely. Hard work truly does pay off. There were moments when giving up seemed tempting, but I kept reminding myself to persevere. Looking back, I’m grateful for every challenge I’ve overcome.
Interviewer: Yes, that’s true. Absolutely, it was worth it. Alright, Celeste, is there any final message you’d like to share with the audience? Do you have any words of motivation for future SQE candidates?
Celeste: Absolutely. Firstly, I’d like to emphasise the importance of reflecting on your beginnings and reasons for embarking on this journey during tough times. It’s crucial to remind yourself of your starting point and the drive that initiated this path. Doing so can reignite your motivation and keep you focused.
Secondly, when facing struggles, it’s vital to allow yourself some time. Don’t let overwhelming emotions dictate your actions. Stepping back and taking a breather can provide clarity and perspective. Remember, there are numerous resources available for support.
Lastly, view the SQE not merely as a challenge but as a life journey. Like life itself, it’s bound to have its highs and lows. But through perseverance and resilience, you’ll come to appreciate the growth and opportunities it presents. Personally, I don’t regret starting this journey. It has allowed me to discover a new version of myself, one I never thought possible. Embrace the challenges, for they reveal your true potential. So, to all aspiring SQE candidates, I urge you not to give up. With dedication and perseverance, your dreams of passing the SQE exams will undoubtedly become a reality.
Interviewer: Yes, I’m joining you, Celeste, and wishing good luck to all the candidates reading this and thinking of taking the SQE.
