Emily Andrew

Meet Emily Andrew!

A creator sharing her journey to the Bar, supporting the next generation on their journey to the Bar. She shares her support and advice for those starting their Bar course and provides study tips on her social media channel.

A current pupil barrister at CPS.

I grew up in the Southwest. I have a younger sister, whom I was a young carer for. I went to a state school and did not attend a Russel Group University. I studied Law with Forensic Psychology and then went on to do the BTC LLM in 22/23. I am now a Pupil Barrister at the Crown Prosecution Service. As expected, I am predominantly interested in Criminal Law. I want to share my story to make other young people with a similar background believe in themselves!

‘Why do you want to be a Barrister’ – the dreaded pupillage question. My answer, however, is quite simple. I am passionate about giving others a voice. That is what we do. That is our job – to be the voice for those unable to use their own.

I had a keen interest in current affairs from a young age. The Marine A case brought my attention to the legal profession. I then went on to work with individuals with disabilities, both here in England, and in America. I realised I wanted to be a voice for those who cannot use their own. The Bar seemed to be the perfect amalgamation of my passions.

In my first year of university, I began volunteering as an Appropriate Adult, advocating for children in custody. This was my first ‘taste’ of the real justice system. Advocating for real people, in custody, facing real charges. I loved it. But I still felt inadequate, not good enough to do this professionally.

I didn’t think I was clever enough, or from the ‘right’ background. I had set my sights on joining the military. During my final year of university,

I realised you never know until you try!

So, I began applying for mini-pupillages, asking for work experience, and attending events. My first mini-pupillage was in London, and I adored every second. I knew I had made the right choice.

As mentioned above, I was state school educated. I didn’t have outstanding GCSE’s, my A-Level’s were better. I didn’t go to a Russel Group University. Yet despite this, I was awarded a significant scholarship from Inner Temple and three scholarships from my BTC provider. I was awarded Best Law Student of my graduating class and obtained pupillage at age 21. This goes to show that this profession is about more than just schooling.

I wanted to become part of GenHer Power because there weren’t stories like mine when I started University. Despite wanting to become a Barrister, I had decided against it because I didn’t think I was good enough.

I want young women to see my story and know they too can do incredible things, despite their background, history, or gender. Surround yourself with like-minded people. You can’t do this journey alone.

My advice is this: Believe in yourself. Be unapologetically yourself. In the words of my favourite musical, Matilda – ‘Nobody but me is going to change my story’

Written by Emily Andrew