What made you choose Queen’s and your course?

Queen’s stood out for its reputation as a Russell Group university, the vibrant campus life and its strong Law faculty. Growing up locally, I was inspired by Queen’s legacy and its commitment to excellence. Studying Law offered the perfect blend of intellectual challenge and practical skills, setting a solid foundation for my career. Belfast itself was a huge draw - I’ve always felt a deep connection to the city and Queen’s is at the heart of its cultural and professional life.

Can you share a memorable experience of your time at Queen’s? 

One of my most memorable experiences at Queen’s was sitting in a sports law lecture with Professor Jack Anderson, a leading expert in sports law. During that class, I had a real moment of clarity - realising just how many possibilities a law degree could open up. Professor Anderson’s passion for the subject and his stories about working on high-profile sports cases made me see that my degree could take me in so many different directions, far beyond the traditional paths I’d imagined.

I was also deeply influenced by Professor Phil Scraton, whose internationally renowned work on social justice and advocacy for the bereaved and marginalised showed me the power of law to drive real change in society. His critical approach and dedication to truth and justice inspired me to think more broadly about the impact I could have as a lawyer.

Another great influence was Seamus Heaney. I started at Queen’s just a year before he passed away, but I had the joy of meeting him at an event in Queen’s many years before I joined. Heaney’s poetry and presence inspired me to study English Literature at A level, and his legacy continues to shape the creative and intellectual spirit of Queen’s. The Seamus Heaney Centre at Queen’s is a beacon for artistic exploration and a tribute to his enduring influence on generations of students and writers.

That sense of possibility and excitement about the future has stayed with me ever since, and it’s something I try to pass on to current students whenever I can. Alongside that, the friendships I formed and the opportunities to engage with diverse peers and societies enriched my university journey. These connections have lasted well beyond graduation and continue to shape my personal and professional life. 

How did your time at university shape your personal and professional development?

Queen’s provided not just academic knowledge but also opportunities to develop resilience, adaptability, and leadership. The rigorous Law programme taught me to think critically and communicate effectively, while involvement in extracurricular activities helped me build a strong professional network. My time at Queen’s taught me that it’s ok not to know exactly where you’re headed - what matters is being open to opportunities and learning from every experience.

What skills or knowledge gained during university have been most valuable to you in your career?

The analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to navigate complex legal issues have been invaluable throughout my career. Queen’s also fostered my ability to work collaboratively, manage competing priorities, and approach challenges with a pragmatic mindset - skills I use daily as a legal advisor. Most importantly, I learned that your degree is just your starting point; it’s the core skills you develop - problem solving, teamwork, adaptability - that shape your future. 

How did you transition from university to your current career?

After graduating, I trained with Arthur Cox LLP, gaining experience in both Belfast and London. I didn’t always know exactly what I wanted to do, and I’ve learned that it’s ok to feel uncertain at any stage of your career. I’ve made sideways moves, taken risks, and embraced change - ultimately leading me to my current role at Kainos, where I advise on commercial, technology, and most recently AI.

What key factors or decisions influenced your career choice?

Choosing Law was driven by a desire to make a tangible impact and solve real-world problems. Key decisions included pursuing secondments, taking on leadership roles, and not being afraid of sideways moves. I’ve learned that success isn’t just about titles or tenure - it’s about building skills and adapting to new opportunities. My career has been more of a climbing wall than a ladder, and I’ve found freedom in shaping my own path.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career journey so far?

The most rewarding aspect has been the opportunity to lead and mentor others, whether through my role at Kainos, supporting wellbeing and inclusion, or through alumni work at Queen’s. I’m proud to be the 10th female President of the QGA in almost 100 years, and I hope to show graduates - especially women and working parents - that with a strong network, you can balance career, family, and leadership.

How do you stay motivated and continue to grow in your career?

I stay motivated by embracing new challenges, investing in continuous learning, and building strong relationships. Leading wellbeing initiatives and volunteering for social mobility programmes have kept me connected to my values and the wider community. I’ve learned to free myself from the opinions and judgments of others, take ownership of my choices, and celebrate both successes and failures as opportunities to grow.

Can you tell us more about how you got involved in the alumni community here at Queen’s and why it was important for you?

My involvement with the Queen’s Graduates’ Association is rooted in a genuine belief that connection is transformative. “Your network is your net worth” - and nowhere is that truer than in Belfast. Through QGA, I’ve seen firsthand how meaningful relationships and shared experiences can open doors, spark new ideas, and provide support through every stage of life and career.

As President, I’m passionate about creating opportunities for graduates to reconnect, celebrate each other’s achievements, and give back to the university and wider community. Whether it’s awarding scholarships, hosting networking events, or championing women in leadership, my goal is to help every graduate feel valued and empowered. I’m especially proud of the work we do to support postgraduate study and to foster cross-border engagement, as well as the friendships and collaborations that grow from these efforts.

Community and leadership have always been at the heart of what I do - whether volunteering for local charities, serving on boards, or leading wellbeing initiatives for colleagues. I believe in building a culture of integrity, sportsmanship, and support, both within Queen’s and beyond. My hope is that every graduate feels confident to take their seat at the table, to embrace opportunities, and to know that they are part of a community that will champion them every step of the way. 

Queen’s has always been a place that brings people together - from Nobel laureates like Seamus Heaney to inspiring leaders like Hillary Rodham Clinton. The alumni community is a living legacy of that spirit. I feel privileged to play a part in building a network where graduates can thrive, support one another, and make a lasting impact  - locally and globally.

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Queen's Alumni Community

Queen’s Graduates’ Association

Holly Poots President of the Queen’s Graduates’ Association I’m Holly Poots, Associate General Counsel at Kainos, a leading global digital technology company headquartered in Belfast. I studied Law (LLB) at Queen’s University Belfast, graduating in 2010, and completed my Post Graduate Diploma in Professional Legal Studies at Queen’s in 2012. I’m currently President of the Queen’s Graduates’ Association, where I help foster connections among graduates and support initiatives that benefit both alumni and current students. I’m proud to be working so closing with Queen’s - it’s a place that has shaped my career and personal life and I love the energy and sense of community.