Bio
My name is Jamie Murphy and I am in the 4th year of my Scots law degree. I am the Director of Representation for the Aberdeen Law Project.
Favourite quote?
“That’s life, you know. We never end up where you thought you wanted to be.” — Marshall Eriksen (How I Met Your Mother)
How would you describe your experience of the Aberdeen Law Project?
This is now my fourth year in the project and I have to say everything I have done so far has been truly rewarding. Through my time in various aspects of ALP, whether it be schools or the representation team, it is truly great seeing the impact the project can make in society and to the lives of those in the community.
Who or what inspires you?
Dusty Springfield has been a particularly inspirational figure for me for a variety of reasons. She had great musical accomplishments despite having had such difficult and complicated personal struggles. Her music is something I have been brought up with, especially in my teen years, with me still listening to Wishin’ and Hopin’ on repeat to get me through exams. I can firmly say I would not have done as well in my degree if it wasn’t for her music playing in the background.
Why do you do pro bono?
I guess the big reason is because I have seen the problems lack of access can cause. It is unbelievable how many people have legal issues which they are simply unable to resolve because either they are either unable to find anyone to support or, even worse, they don’t even realise they have a legal problem. I’m involved in pro bono because I recognise the fact that I have been offered so much through my degree and want to give something back in return.
What advice would you give to someone considering studying law at Aberdeen?
Although it may be entirely overwhelming, definitely push through it and take the risk. I was absolutely terrified by my choice but once you get started and survive the first few months it is a worthwhile experience. The key is to get as involved as possible at the very start by joining societies and, of course, the Aberdeen Law Project. It’s how I have met many law students from across the years who have been able to help with any problems I have faced.
Where do you see yourself in ten years’ time?
I would love to say I know the answer to this but I don’t. I want to be involved or linked to healthcare somehow but my exact future role is entirely unknown. Really, I enjoy not having an exact image for what life will look like in ten years’ time because, if COVID-19 has taught us anything, it is best to expect the unexpected.
And lastly, what’s the dream?
Although not a career aim, I have always been a supporter of small, local charities so my main dream is to be able to offer further support to ensure the success of particularly Edinburgh-based charities which aim to assist the ageing population of the UK.
ALP is grateful for continuing financial support from the University of Aberdeen Development Trust.
