Melissa Higley
A Paralegal who has established herself as a rising talent within the law profession has been Highly Commended at the University's inaugural Alumni Awards.
Melissa Higley, who studied BA Sociology with Politics and later completed an LLM in Legal Practice at the University between 2020 and 2024, was recognised in the Rising Star category for her rapid career progression, commitment to supporting aspiring legal professionals, and contributions to the wider Worcestershire legal community.
“I am honoured to be given this recognition, and it really motivates me to keep going,” she said. “Training to be a lawyer comes with challenges and obstacles, whether it’s long hours or self-doubt, but to be recognised for all those hours just spurs me on to keep going, keep giving back and keep trying to make a difference.”
In less than two years since graduating, Melissa, from Stourbridge, has progressed from a Legal Assistant role to becoming a Corporate Paralegal specialising in due diligence before moving into her current position as an Employment Paralegal. Melissa has also played a key role in supporting senior equity partners in securing multimillion-pound transactions through the development of pitches and marketing materials. She now works in the Employment, HR and Immigration team as a Paralegal and Marketing lead at Harrison Clark Rickerbys (HCR) Law in Worcester.
Melissa is Chair of the Worcestershire Junior Lawyers Division, where she helps junior professionals build networks and develop their careers through events and activities across the county. She has also partnered with the University of Worcester to give students opportunities to attend these events, helping them gain valuable experience and connections as they begin their own careers.
Melissa regularly returns to the University to support current students, contributing to panel discussions, lectures and talks for both the sociology and law departments. Through this work she encourages students considering a career in law and shares advice based on her own journey into the profession.
“Worcester gave me the confidence and belief that I could achieve greatness and was capable of doing so,” she said. “My lecturers empowered me and supported me throughout my time at university particularly during the Covid pandemic.”
She added that her studies helped shape her determination to improve opportunities for others.
“Sociology gave me the awareness of the challenges and struggles certain groups experienced in society and law enabled me to hopefully make a difference,” she said.
Melissa said some of her fondest memories of Worcester were the people she met during her studies.
“I met some fantastic and inspiring people during my time at the University, people that I was so glad to see go out in the world knowing they will do well and make a positive impact on society. I’ve met friends for life,” she said.
The University of Worcester Alumni Awards celebrate graduates who have made an outstanding impact in their profession and community.