Proverbial UK experience???

[y2kroja]

I have postgraduate degree in Law with an excellent academic track-record, including a prestigious scholarship, but getting a job here in the UK has been quite challenging. Prospective employers keep telling me 'you do not have uk experience'. It's frustrating. I have a first and masters degree in Law and don't mind working for an oil company or a good multinational. Any ideas on what i can do?

[acw]

Hello there - I know the feeling!

My grades are a little lower than yours, but not to the extent that it should damage my chances.  Unfortunately for you, the UK is a country that has always valued experience very highly.  That is why we tend to graduate by 21 and get to work, rather than studying for longer as on the continent.

My advice is to apply for all the summer vacation schemes you can lay your hands on.  I know that law firms do these, and so do many other firms, of the KPMG type etc.  I believe oil firms do to. 

In the mean time, just sort yourself out with an office job in the UK, get the visa, move over here, and gain that experience!!  At least you'll be earning money whilst looking for the summer schemes or a long term job.

Good luck! :-)