Persefoni shares her experience and some advice after recently completing the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE).
Persefoni Papadimitrou (International Business Law LLM, 2022) explains: “I have been working in Allianz Trade UK since 2022, where I have developed a strong expertise in insurance law. Prior to that, I worked in private practice in Athens.
Becoming a solicitor in England and Wales has long been a dream of mine and passing the SQE-1 exam was a significant milestone. SQE-1 is known to be one of the most challenging bar exams globally, with a notably low success rate. It demands meticulous preparation, commitment, and effective time management, especially when balancing work and study. I dedicated my evenings and weekends to study, even when exhaustion set in. However, with the right approach, I found that it was possible to maintain a balance without needing to take extended time off work or completely miss social engagements.
Coming from a civil law background, I was particularly intrigued by how common law and civil law systems address similar issues and this comparative perspective enriched my understanding of various legal concepts and made the preparation more engaging. The exam itself is rigorous and requires sustained focus.
Having now passed SQE-1 and with an exemption from SQE-2, I am currently in the process of admitting as a solicitor. This achievement has already impacted my daily work and has been well received by my colleagues and organisation; I now possess a deeper understanding of the legal system of England and Wales and feel more confident in my advisory role.
Before pursuing my LLM, my academic and professional background was focused on EU law, particularly Greek law. My postgraduate studies at Queen Mary opened the door to English law as I took several modules that provided invaluable insights into its principles. This foundational introduction, combined with my dedication to my studies, has been crucial to my success.
For anyone considering this path, I can affirm that while the journey is demanding, it’s also incredibly rewarding. With dedication and the right strategies, the challenges of SQE-1 can be successfully navigated, leading to exciting new opportunities!”