Will Phillips

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Hanne & Co Solicitors LLP

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

Since leaving Exeter I completed a Masters in Law and began my training contract at a law firm in London.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

There are so many different branches to the law and a huge variety of potential disciplines. It follows then that being a lawyer gives you the opportunity to become an expert in the field you are most interested in. My passion is property and I get to learn more about it every single day!

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

I was part of Ancient History society and 6-a-side football.

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

I loved being surrounded by classmates who had the same passion as me. I met some of my closest friends during my degree and we still talk about history together!

What did you most enjoy about studying here?

The city! It is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK and one of the best places to be a young person.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

The campus was beautiful and when I visited I could just imagine myself being there. The facilities are also lovely.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

Even now, being a lawyer, the most common questions people ask me about are in relation to my background in History. Everybody has some interest in history and it’s great to be able to chat to people about all things Romans and Greeks.

Try everything and speak to family and friends about what they did or currently do. Don’t pressure yourself to know exactly what you want to do during your time at Exeter; life is a marathon, not a sprint, so enjoy your time.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

If you know a lawyer personally, invite them for a tea or coffee so that you can ask them a million questions! If it sounds like something you would be interested in, apply to some local law firms to do some work experience.

What are your plans for the future?

Qualify as a Solicitor in 2026 and continue learning more every day.