(Image: Supplied)
A Glasgow law student has won a scholarship offering financial support, mentoring and work placements at leading law firm Pinsent Masons.
Arisha Asghar, 20, is in her third year at the University of Strathclyde and has been named the 2026 recipient of the Kirk Murdoch Scholarship.
Kirk Murdoch. (Image: Supplied)
Established in memory of Kirk Murdoch, the former chairman of Pinsent Masons in Scotland, the scholarship supports talented students from less advantaged backgrounds. It is run in partnership with the Lawscot Foundation.
The award includes a bursary, mentoring from senior Pinsent Masons lawyers and a summer placement at the firm, which employs more than 500 people in Scotland.
Ms Asghar, a former pupil of Hyndland Secondary School, will take part in the firm’s vacation schemes in 2027 and 2028.
She is interested in corporate and commercial law and hopes the placements will broaden her understanding of the sector and help her secure a traineeship.
The scholarship was launched eight years ago and aims to widen access to the legal profession by combining financial assistance with practical experience and professional guidance.
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Arisha Asghar, 2026 Kirk Murdoch Scholarship recipient, said: "I have worked in hospitality since I was 16 and over the summer I took on a second job as I was trying to save up so I would not have to work as much during the university year.
"The bursary will be a big help during third year and will make it easier to concentrate on my studies."
Barry McCaig, partner and head of Pinsent Masons’ Glasgow office, said: "Kirk Murdoch was a hugely respected figurehead of our firm and it’s fitting that his legacy is maintained by supporting young law students as they take their first tentative steps toward a full-time career in law."
Kay McCorquodale, chair of the Lawscot Foundation, said: "Many congratulations to Arisha on receiving this year's Kirk Murdoch Scholarship.
"Since it was launched eight years ago, the scholarship has a made a considerable difference to our students, offering invaluable insights into a career in law as well as financial aid and mentorship.
"We are very grateful to Pinsent Masons for their longstanding commitment to widening access to the profession and look forward to continuing supporting Arisha through her legal studies."