Lawscot Foundation scholars gain legal insight at inaugural student conference

A group of 12 Scottish law students supported by the charity had the opportunity to network and hear from sponsor firms, practising solicitors and legal organisations on a range of topics at the event held at the Law Society of Scotland’s Edinburgh offices.

Ryan McCuaig, social mobility speaker and Senior Associate at Anderson Strathern, delivered the keynote address, sharing his journey from growing up in care to graduating with a first‑class law degree from the University of Strathclyde.

Mr McCuaig gave the students practical advice on what to consider throughout their early careers and encouraged them to “remember why you wanted to become a lawyer in the first place.”

He said: “Wherever you go, remember how difficult it felt when you couldn’t get through the door and let’s do everything we can to make sure we’re leaving that door open for the next generation that are following after us.”

Scholars also met the Foundation’s trustees, Law Society Chief Executive Ben Kemp and sponsor firms at an evening reception marking the charity’s 10th anniversary.

Lawscot Foundation chair Kay McCorquodale said: “Today was about giving our students a chance to experience a legal conference in an informal, safe space where they could build confidence, ask questions and form professional relationships that will support them throughout their careers.

“I am very grateful to Ryan and our sponsors for taking the time to attend in person. Establishing our inaugural student conference is an important investment in our students’ future and one that will strengthen the profession for years to come.

“It was particularly special to bring together our students, sponsors, supporters and trustees as we mark 10 years of the Foundation. Events like these are exactly why we exist, so we can give our scholars opportunities they would otherwise not have access to.”