First-Year Law Students Mentorship Session, Shaping Legal Careers

The University of Nairobi, through the Office of Career Services under the Dean of Students, held a Career Guidance and Mentorship Session for first-year Law students at the Faculty of Law, Parklands, on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. The goal of this session was to introduce new students to the realities of the legal profession and to help them align their talents, interests, and aspirations with suitable career paths.

The mentorship session provided students with practical insights that gave them a clear picture of the various legal career lanes as well as alternative opportunities within and outside the law profession. Students were encouraged to start planning early, to make deliberate choices, and to take advantage of every chance to grow into well-rounded professionals.

Naomi Nyaboga, Head of the Career Section, sensitized students on beginning their career journey from day one, stressing that every small step contributes to long-term success. The Assistant Dean of Students, Ms. Lucy Gikundi, reinforced this message by highlighting professionalism as a defining factor for future lawyers and urging students to remain committed to their objectives.

The mentorship program featured inspiring presentations from leading practitioners in the legal field. Mr. Victor Kihika, a partner at Dentons Hamilton Harrison & Mathews, underscored the importance of confidence, curiosity, and boldness, reminding students that audacity in asking questions is key to growth, even when one risks being wrong.

Ms. Florence Shako who is a Senior Partner at Mitullah Shako & Associates Advocates LLP, emphasized ethics as the cornerstone of a successful legal career. She noted that being ethical not only fosters longevity in the profession but also attracts the right clients, mentors, and opportunities. She also advised students to focus on building essential skills in communication, presentation, and professionalism as they take part in internships and moot court competitions to ensure their CVs and experiences remain competitive.

The mentorship gave the students of the Faculty of Law motivation to begin shaping their career journeys early and marked as the beginning of a four-year journey in which the Faculty of Law and the Office of Career Services will continue to nurture and mentor the students. The goal is to ensure that by the time these students graduate, they will not only be academically accomplished but also market ready, ethical, and impactful professionals prepared to serve society with purpose.