Ismael's success story: Securing a training contract at Bristows

Ismael is a Pharmacy graduate from the University of East Anglia, who secured a Future Trainee Solicitor role at Bristows in London.  

First, please tell us a little bit about yourself.

“I was first introduced to law during an intellectual property lecture in my pharmacy degree and instantly felt a spark, as it combined my long-standing interest in life sciences with business.

I enjoyed learning about the importance of rewarding innovation and the practicalities of protecting it, which became the starting point of my legal journey. From there, I attended legal events, undertook an internship and received mentorship, all of which strengthened my decision to pivot into commercial law.

During my internship, I particularly enjoyed constructing commercial solutions to complex matters such as joint ventures and licensing of patents, which are challenges that rarely have clear-cut answers. This confirmed for me that commercial law is the right path for me, where I can combine analytical thinking with creativity to deliver practical outcomes.”

What motivated you to apply for your role?

“I was introduced to Bristows’ sector-focused strategy through the mentorship scheme, which highlighted the firm’s leading expertise in patent litigation. With my background in pharmacy, I am particularly drawn to the intersection between science and commercial law and Bristows’ focus in this space makes it an ideal environment for me to develop this interest.

A presentation on Hospira v Novartis demonstrated the firm’s impact on precedent-setting cases and their wider significance for the pharmaceutical industry. Combined with my experience in pharmacy and legal internships, this confirmed my ambition to pursue a career in commercial life sciences law, particularly through Bristows’ guaranteed IP litigation seat.

What also stood out to me during the mentorship was the firm’s culture. My role as a pharmacist has shown me the value of working in collegial, inclusive environments and my conversations with trainees and solicitors made it clear that Bristows embodies these values. Speaking with an associate further reinforced this, as he described the advantages of the firm’s small trainee intake and the strong sense of community it fosters. Together, the firm’s unique practice focus and supportive working environment make Bristows the ideal place to begin my legal career.”

What was your application journey like?

“My application journey was both challenging and rewarding. I prepared by reflecting on how my pharmacy background had shaped my skills and perspective and how these could translate into a career in law.

I spent time researching Bristows’ sector focus, attending events and preparing clear examples to demonstrate my motivation for pivoting into commercial law. What I was most nervous about was whether I could effectively convey how my experiences outside of law were relevant to the role.

However, during the interview, I was struck by how tailored the questions felt as they drew directly on my experiences as a pharmacist and encouraged me to reflect on how these skills could add value at Bristows. This made the process feel more like a conversation than an interrogation and allowed me to show my genuine enthusiasm and curiosity.”

What are you most proud of about your journey?

“What I’m most proud of is having the courage to pivot from a career in critical care pharmacy to law. Working as a pharmacist in intensive care meant dealing with high-pressure situations where decisions had a direct impact on patients’ lives.

That experience shaped my resilience and ability to stay calm under pressure, but it also made me reflect on where I wanted to take my skills long-term. Choosing to retrain in law was not an easy decision, but it is one I am proud of.

Overcoming those challenges has given me real confidence. It showed me that I can adapt, push myself outside my comfort zone and thrive in unfamiliar territory. That sense of resilience and determination is something I will carry into the law.”

What have you learnt from going through the process?

“Going through the process taught me the importance of framing my non-legal experience as an asset rather than a limitation.

I also learned that preparation goes beyond knowing cases and what’s going on in the news. It’s also about being able to tell your own story with clarity and confidence and to form opinions based on the facts available to you.

If I had known that earlier, I would have spent less time worrying about ‘fitting the mould’ and more time focusing on how my journey into law sets me apart.”

Tell us about the future. What’s next?

“I’m most excited about beginning my legal career in an environment where I can combine my scientific background with commercial problem-solving.

I’m particularly drawn to patent litigation, where science and law intersect and cases often shape the direction of entire industries. I look forward to developing my skills by working alongside experienced lawyers on complex disputes, contributing to matters that have both legal and commercial significance.

Most of all, I’m motivated by the opportunity to continue professional development, take on responsibility and build a career that bridges my interest in technology and the life sciences with my future in law.”