Law may be a centuries old practice, but Conyers Dill & Pearman is exciting local students with its modern approach to law firm culture and recruitment. Conyers’ scholarship and internship programmes have proved to be highly popular with numerous applications received each year from young Caymanians interested in pursuing a career in law.
The Conyers scholarship, known as the Legal Education Award, offers US$25,000 each year to one selected recipient. This year, however, the scholarship was split, due to the application of two exceptional candidates: Ashley DaCosta and Kiah Estwick.
“I was excited to learn that I was a recipient of the scholarship,” expressed Ms. DaCosta. “My passion for law lies in the belief that a legal career enables one to influence society in a positive way by upholding and protecting a culture of justice, peace and order.”
Whilst Ms. DaCosta has been accepted at the University of Essex to study law, she admitted that prior to her experience with Conyers, she was not certain whether a career in law was in her future.
“It is out of my work experience with Conyers that I became driven to pursue a legal career,” she explained. “I am honoured to be associated with such a great firm.”
Last year’s scholarship recipient, Joseph “Zeppi” Barefoot is pleased to have recently received a renewal in his funding for the 2016/2017 calendar year. Mr. Barefoot is currently at the University of Bristol, and is now attending the second year of his MA in law.
“From day one Conyers left me with a great impression,” said Mr. Barefoot. “Obtaining their legal scholarship, as well as interning during the summer has motivated me to excel in my masters and eventually come back to work with the firm after my studies.”
As part of the renewal of his scholarship, Mr. Barefoot spent the month of August with Conyers, interning under various attorneys. Three other Caymanian students also participated in the internship programme: Sean-Anna Thompson, Alaye McLaughlin, and Cory Hunter.
Mr. Barefoot has been impressed by the professional guidance of the firm, and looks forward to a future with Conyers.
“Not once have I felt uncomfortable during my time here. The employees are exceptional in the work they produce and I am looking forward to training under them in the future,” he said.
The paid internship was a four week programme run during the months of July and August, with an aim of fueling students’ desires to continue their legal education and consider joining the Conyers team after graduation.