I am now settled into the third (and final) seat of my traineeship and thought I'd take the opportunity to reflect on my journey with the firm so far.
As soon as I began researching law firms that offered traineeships, Brodies stood out to me. Attending a law fair to meet some of the firm's (then) trainees, and attending the firm's insight evening, confirmed this to me.
Following completion of the third year of my LLB, I completed a summer placement in Brodies' Personal & Family team in Edinburgh.
Here's why I'd recommend a Brodies summer placement to prospective future trainees:
1. Unparalleled insight into the firm
Whilst on placement, I was pleasantly surprised to be given more responsibility than I'd anticipated. Click here to read about my summer placement experience. People were extremely generous with their time and guidance. I felt supported during the placement and also encouraged to get involved - both workwise and with social events.
The placement is carefully structured to optimise students' exposure to the firm over the four weeks. Undoubtedly, the learning breakfasts were highlights for me. Each session was led by a lawyer from a different practice area - it was fascinating to hear directly from them about the firm's array of exceptional clients, and about the role of a trainee within their team. There was always the chance to ask questions too.
2. Putting University learning into context
During undergraduate studies you learn about the law in theory, a summer placement at Brodies will help to put this into context. I was involved in real work from day 1 in my placement team.
One of my personal aims had been to gain an understanding of the day-to-day role of a trainee in a commercial law firm. I had completed a small amount of legal work experience prior to the placement (and done as much research as possible), but nothing compared to the practical insight spending a month at Brodies offered me. It strengthened my commercial awareness and confirmed that a traineeship at Brodies was for me.
3. It's enjoyable!
My placement experience equipped me well for the traineeship. Already being familiar with some of the firm's systems, as well as knowing plenty of friendly faces, made returning to start my training contract a seamless transition.
A summer placement is a great way to get to know your (potential) future colleagues too. Three and a half years on, I still have friendships and connections that I made whilst on placement. Many of us have returned to the firm to train and together are now approaching the final stretch towards qualification.
Summer placement applications for 2020 are open until Monday 6 January at midday.
Contributor
Trainee Solicitor at Brodies LLP
