Julian: What to do after the GCSEs...

This section is a personal account by Julian about his experiences and decisions after completing his GCSEs, leading to his career as a lawyer. The key takeaways from his narrative are:

• Initial Ambition: Julian was inspired by detective and courtroom dramas and aspired to become a lawyer.
• Post-GCSE Exploration: After his GCSEs, he sought work in a law firm to explore his interest. He started with basic office duties as an office junior to gain experience and assess his fit for the profession.
• Perceived Job Qualities: He initially believed a law job offered significant benefits like job satisfaction, career progression, good working conditions, and stability.
• Further Education: He returned to school to complete his 'A' Levels and then pursued a university degree in law.
• Career Progression: He is now a successful lawyer, continuing in the same firm where he started as an office junior at 16.
• Key Message: Julian emphasizes that early self-discovery and gaining experience are crucial for finding a fulfilling career and that one's enjoyment and aptitude become clear through experience.