Specialist LPC Distinction Level Tutor. Ulaw LPC exam/revision techniques with notes. Solicitor at Top UK Law Firm - employability lessons, application reviews and interview advice

Find out more about Elisa

• When did you develop an interest in your chosen field and in private tutoring?

  I studied law at university from 2017-2021 and now work as a legal professional. Prior to studying law, I was never particularly interested in it, but wanted to be employable! My passion for the subject began to foster when I engaged with it critically in my studies, and it only grew as I started to work practically at legal advice clinics, and within the local council. I always had a keen interest in peer to peer tutoring throughout my studies. I felt that it helped keep me accountable, and ultimately made the process of learning much more enjoyable. I love to inspire others, and after gaining such high marks on the LPC, I knew I could use my knowledge to encourage others to enjoy learning, particularly with what is considered such a difficult course. I love the process of adjusting my materials and sessions to fit my tutees, and feel such immense pride as I see them progress and do well in their exams!

• Tell us more about the subject you teach, the topics you like to discuss with students (and possibly those you like a little less).

  I stick to what I know best and pride myself on this. I only like to deliver sessions that I know will be of high quality, which is why on the technical legal lessons, I limit this to what I covered on my LPC. A full list of which modules I studied are on my profile.
  
  
  I do, however, enjoy having open conversations and sessions about any aspect of legal employability, which is applicable to all people who want to go into a career in law! No matter the role or individual, these sessions are great. I have helped people secure jobs as trainees, paralegals and even social media assistants at law firms. Helping people evaluate their skills and see their potential is incredibly rewarding.

• Did you have any role models; a teacher that inspired you?

  My parents both work in education and always stressed the importance of learning to me, so I know that some of my skills in teaching are definitely down to them. They both think of others before themselves and have given their lives to helping disadvantaged children, which makes me so proud.
  
  
  When I think of my favourite teacher/tutor, I feel admiration, thinking of their dedication and kindness. Most people have at least one teacher throughout their lives that makes them feel that way, and it doesn't have to be education based. It could be a piano teacher, a football coach, or a work mentor. I strive to be that person who makes a difference for others.

• What do you think are the qualities required to be a good tutor?

  Adaptability. Understanding the differing needs of tutees is hugely important. This is why I like to ask my tutees how best they like to learn in our initial session. Some prefer to receive more of a lecture style lesson, others want to be tested on their knowledge - both are completely valid!
  
  
  Empathy. Some people seek out a tutor because they just need someone to speak to about their work. Whereas, others are really struggling, and feel like it is their last chance at doing well. Everyone's situation is different, and being able to understand and work together through any issues is crucial to building a strong professional relationship. I want my tutees to know that if they are comfortable in doing so, they can bring their whole selves to our lessons.
  
  
  Patience. I think patience ties adaptability and empathy together, and is ultimately the most important quality to have as a tutor. People come to me at many different stages of learning, with differing levels of confidence, and that is perfectly fine. I understand that the pace of learning will be unique for each tutee.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  It was a friend of mine who taught me how to study effectively. He was really interested in psychology and did a lot of research into how to revise for exams. He told me about how studying the same content in different environments can help you retain the information better. He also explained the method of creating your own questions, that incorporate all of your materials as answers, to form your revision. After years of refining this technique, I finally applied it to law in my first year of university, and was extremely successful in doing so.
  
  
  From then on, I began to teach this to others and eventually felt confident enough to tutor professionally. But, it was really this interaction, years ago, that got me there, and I am forever grateful for that!

• What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or are still facing in your subject?

  I struggled (and still do sometimes) with knowing where I fit in the legal world. There are a wealth of jobs out there, and not just the traditional solicitor / barrister paths either. You could be a practice development lawyer, or a legal personal assistant, or work in legal project management - the world is your oyster! I always thought I wanted to be a personal legal services solicitor, but now work in the business side of things and I love that too. I also always wonder whether one day I would like to teach law full time. Not knowing is okay, but I would always encourage people to just try new things. Sometimes this can create more new questions than answers, but you will never regret having a go, and won't ever look back wishing that you had at least tried. There is not one path, and I have to often remind myself of that.

• Do you have a particular passion? Is it teaching in general or an element of the subject or something completely different?

  Teaching others is a passion of mine. I am confident in my abilities and know that I need to share my knowledge, understanding and advice with others, to help them succeed academically or professionally too. Everyone has a different idea of what 'success' looks like for them, and I love learning what that means to different people. Getting an insight into how others think about learning, and feel about the world, is amazing. I have met so many wonderful people throughout my life from tutoring, and look forward to meeting more in the years to come.
  
  
  Whilst I do have a passion for teaching in general, I also think teaching law is extra special. It feels so empowering to learn about the law and apply it to life - many of my family members and friends have already come to me for advice. I would love for others to be able to feel confident in being able to help those they care about.
  
  
  Additionally, with regards to employability, it is so rewarding being able to help people secure their dream jobs, or even if it is not their dream job, to get their foot in the door. It is a difficult market at the moment, but helping people see their worth, regardless of this, is a great feeling.

• What makes you a Superprof (besides answering these interview questions :-P)?

  I am honest with myself and my tutees about what I can help them with. That is why I really value having a free first session, so we can get to know one another. I think this is so important, not only for me to evaluate how I can teach, but also for the potential tutees to see if they gel with me, and would like to go forward with lessons - there is never an obligation to do so!
  
  
  I have put time and effort into refining my materials and building my network, to give the most value to my tutees that I can. I am approachable, understanding and dedicated to my work, and will always help others to achieve their goals.