Solomon Civico is currently studying our MA Law (Conversion) course full-time at our Sheffield campus. Here, he shares the employability initiatives he has taken part in and his plans as the Student Union (SU)’s Campus Vice President.
By April Baniqued. Published 08 July 2026.
What is your career ambition?
My goal is to qualify as a solicitor and build my career in London, specialising in commercial law. My mum has always been a major influence on that ambition. She was the first in her family to go to university and then Law School. She eventually secured a training contract and qualified as a solicitor. Her determination and the example she set have inspired me throughout my studies. I hope to follow a similar path in my own career.
Why did you choose to study at The University of Law?
I chose The University of Law because I wanted a practical and career-focused route into the profession. The emphasis on teaching by experienced lawyers, rather than purely academic staff, really appealed to me. I also liked the structure of the MA Law course and the strong careers support. Both aspects felt important as someone moving into law from another subject.
Have you received any scholarships or funding?
I was awarded the Law First Scholarship. I was extremely grateful to the University for this award as it was pivotal for me in funding my studies.
What inspired you to apply for the SU?
I am the SU’s Campus Vice-President. I applied to further develop my leadership skills and to take on more responsibility within the University.
I want to help make studying at the Sheffield campus feel like a fuller university experience. One thing I’d like to focus on is strengthening our connection with The University of Sheffield. I plan to encourage students to join their societies and get involved in the wider student community. At the same time, I’d like to support students in setting up societies within the University itself. I want us to work together to grow our campus identity. I also hope to create opportunities for people to get to know each other outside the classroom.
What activities can students look forward to?
I aim to organise a range of social events throughout the year to help bring people together across the campus. I’m also planning to set up the University’s five-a-side football team. As well as encourage other students to start their own societies or sports teams. My aim is for us to have groups that can take part in The University of Sheffield campus league or other competitions around the city. This way, the students can get more involved and feel part of a community.
Tell us about some of the initiatives you've participated in at the University?
Taking part in the University’s initiatives has really added to my student experience. I joined the Child Poverty Action Group as a Judicial Review volunteer through the Pro Bono portal. This has given me genuine insight into how legal support can make a difference. I also took part in the Certified Commercial Awareness Series. As well as a virtual event with Charles Russell Speechlys, focused on commercial awareness. Both were a great fit for my interests. They helped me get a better sense of the career path I want to pursue.
What achievements are you proud of?
I recently ran the Yorkshire Marathon and raised money for Macmillan whilst doing so. I am extremely proud, not only for finishing the race itself, but for sticking to my training plan for months leading up to the race. I had to balance this with travelling, work and starting a full-time course at the University. This experience taught me resilience, determination and, above all, how to manage my time more effectively.
What support have you received from the University?
I’ve found the support from the Employability Service and the Pro Bono team really helpful. The weekly employability newsletter has been especially useful. It keeps me up to date with upcoming events, workshops and the Pro Bono opportunities available. Having everything signposted so clearly has made it much easier to get involved. I am now starting to build experience that aligns with the career path I’m aiming for.
What advice would you give to students?
I’d advise students to take full advantage of the Pro Bono projects and the wider employability services. Your course is just the tip of the iceberg at the University; there’s so much more on offer if you get involved. You might even discover the area of law you want to follow through one of these initiatives. I’d strongly recommend exploring as much as you can during your time here.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I would like to have passed both SQE1 and SQE2, completed my training contract and hopefully be living in London.
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