Kate Stubbing from Cooney Lees Morgan has always had strong role models and mentors. So when the opportunity arose to join the College of Law’s new Mentoring Programme – and coach law graduates through the steep post-university learning curve – the choice was simple.

Kate took her chance – and believes you should, too.

In this article, Kate shares her experience in the programme. And, in the process, builds a compelling case around how mentors can get just as much out of the programme as mentees.

1. COLLABORATION: Coaching a new generation of lawyers

I believe that The College of Law’s mentorship programme offers more than a chance to ‘give back’ to a new generation of barristers and solicitors.

It’s also a unique opportunity to learn.

Mentoring allows me to stay in touch with the unique challenges and issues today’s emerging lawyers face. But more importantly, it gives senior lawyers the chance to forge relationships with a less-experienced cohort of legal professionals.

I’ve always loved the collaboration you get working in a law firm. It’s great to be able to give mentees an insight into the environment of a practising lawyer.

Being a mentor has also helped me reflect on my own journey as a lawyer. What would I have been thinking at that age and stage? With the benefit of what I know now, would I have made the same decisions? It’s a thought-provoking experience.

2. CONVENIENCE: Mentorship – but not as you know it

The College of Law programme isn’t like any mentoring I’ve done before.

Rather than relying on face-to-face meetings or regular coaching sessions, mentees can submit their questions through an online portal. The question is then sent to a mentor from a panel, and where possible matched to the mentor with the most relevant expertise or experience.

If that’s me, I’ll receive an email with all the details. I can reply in my own time, and offer further support – over the phone, or even in person – if needed.

While this remote approach to mentorship lacks the benefits of face-to-face interaction, it is very convenient. I can offer tailored tips, feedback or advice that aligns with my skillset, in a timeframe that suits both me and the mentee.

If I don’t have capacity, the question can go to another mentor. It’s a less traditional, more forward-thinking approach that accounts for the rigours of legal life and clogged calendars.

Plus, I think this mode of mentorship works for the generation of lawyers coming through university now. Being able to send through questions, rather than organise Zoom calls or face-to-face catchups, is an easier way to get timely answers and guidance.

3. CAMARADERIE: Building trusting relationships

One of the best things about the College’s mentorship programme is the camaraderie involved.

For graduates leaving university and entering the legal profession, it’s an exciting time – but also a tricky one. Going from learning law to living it is a big change.

Being able to be there for people navigating that transition is an extremely rewarding experience. There are no lawyers in my family. And for students in similar situations, there may not be anyone they can talk to about life as a lawyer– which can be intimidating.

I’ve always had inspirational role models. Why shouldn’t the latest generation of lawyers have them too?

That’s why the programme’s camaraderie is so vital. By building trusting relationships with mentees, you can help them overcome those barriers to education and legal practice, and feel more comfortable asking questions.

Camaraderie isn’t limited solely to the mentor/mentee relationship, either. Mentors get together regularly to share ideas and experiences in a supportive environment. We’re always learning!

Want to follow in Kate’s footsteps? Learn more about our mentorship pathways here at The College of Law.