From barber to the Bar: my story as a career changer

person in a suit going through a door

Technically, I was never a barber, but a hairdresser, although "From Hairdresser to the Bar" does not really have the same ring to it. This is the story of my journey from behind the chair to pursuing a career at the Bar.

At the age of 12, it became clear to me that I wanted to become a lawyer. After watching the film Legally Blonde, which showcased Elle Woods as America's next top lawyer, I was certain this was what I wanted to do when I left school. Not because of the lip gloss and big blonde hair, but because I found it compelling to watch her put together a set of facts to create an argument. It is ironic that Elle's breakthrough argument was based on a freshly permed hairstyle.

However, after one year of sixth form at a non-selective state school, I decided that I did not have the confidence, support or knowledge to go to university and study law. Instead, I chose to follow my creative side and pursue a career in hairdressing. I went straight into an apprenticeship with Toni & Guy and learned to colour hair. It was rewarding because not only did I help people feel great about themselves and boost their confidence with a new hair colour, but I also met people from a wide range of backgrounds and learned about their everyday lives.

People often say that your hairdresser is your second therapist, and I would probably agree that I felt like one much of the time. While working at the flagship salon in Westfield Shepherd's Bush, I also had the opportunity to meet a few celebrities. On several occasions, I coloured BBC presenter Cherry Healey's hair and worked on Rita Ora's hair shortly before she released her first album. We also had Rick Astley visit for a quick trim one day, although in that instance, I was very much an observer from the other side of the salon.

In 2019, I established my own business and officially opened just six weeks before the Covid-19 pandemic. This experience developed my resilience, as I had to think on my feet to keep the new business alive. I stayed connected with clients through social media, which helped me build a new following and attract additional customers when the salon reopened. It taught me that challenges can arise at any time, but it is essential to remain responsible, adaptable and resourceful in finding a way forward.

As much as I enjoyed hairdressing, and as much as my business felt like my second baby, the ambition to become a barrister never quite disappeared. After seeing a social media post from an old school friend who was studying law part-time with The Open University, I decided it was now or never. Three or four years felt like a long time, but those years were going to pass regardless. At the end of them, I could either have a law degree or still be wondering what might have been.

Since beginning my law degree, the journey has not been without its challenges. Balancing study with running a business and being a single parent can be demanding, but the thought of where it may lead keeps me motivated. Being a mature student means approaching my studies with a level of focus and determination that I may not have had at 18. I know myself better now, I understand what I want, and I am willing to put in the work. I believe this is reflected in the results I achieve today.

The skills I have gained through 20 years in hairdressing will help me become a better barrister. Effective communication, active listening, time management, confidence and the ability to work with people from all walks of life are all invaluable skills for a career at the Bar.

As I begin my final law module, I reflect on what I have already achieved over the last few years. I am continuing to develop my public speaking and advocacy skills while expanding my experience and confidence. I am currently writing applications for scholarships and mentoring schemes, demonstrating my written advocacy, and more recently, I have begun showcasing my public speaking through a new podcast series.

My final thought is this: you are never too old to pursue your dreams. Changing careers does not mean starting from zero. You bring everything you have already learned with you, including your resilience, skills and experience. These qualities make you who you are today and help shape who you will become tomorrow.

Katie Petrie

My name is Katie, and I am currently studying for an LLB at The Open University. I am in my final year, with just one module remaining to complete my degree. Like many students, I balance my studies alongside a range of responsibilities, which can sometimes be challenging to manage. However, I believe these competing commitments have strengthened my resilience, time-management skills and ability to prioritise effectively; qualities that will help me become a successful barrister and a stronger candidate for my future career.

Alongside my studies, I run my own business and work full-time as a hairdresser. I also balance the responsibilities of being a parent. After many years of putting the ambition aside, I finally decided in 2022 to pursue my dream of becoming a barrister. When I left school in 2006, I felt that I lacked the confidence, support and knowledge needed to take that career path. Despite this, I always carried a sense of regret that I had not followed my ambition. Thanks to The Open University, the first major step on that journey is now almost complete.