Did you have exposure to clients during the scheme? If so, what was your role and what did you learn from that experience?

One moment that stands out for me was when a Trowers & Hamlins LLP client visited the London office to deliver a speech about changing construction regulations post-Grenfell. I was asked to take notes, and I also greeted the client before the attendees arrived and helped set up the event. During the conference, I listened to the client discuss the practical challenges of implementing changing rules and the questions my colleagues asked. Following the speech, I summarised my notes and circulated them to the team. I found the conference complex but insightful, and learned how important it is for lawyers to understand the industry challenges and legal changes affecting their clients.

Which were the most enjoyable – and most challenging – aspects of the scheme?

The most enjoyable aspect of the scheme was networking with trainees, associates and partners across Trowers & Hamlins. Through departmental talks and socials, I learned more about the firm's work in a casual environment where I felt comfortable asking questions. On top of this, a partner who’d delivered a talk stopped me in the corridor to ask about my experience on the vacation scheme and previous profession – this openness made me feel comfortable and confident to build connections across Trowers & Hamlins.

The most challenging part of the Trowers & Hamlins’ vacation scheme was working on legal matters in a commercial context. As it was my first vacation scheme, I had no experience with commercial contracts or working in a law firm. Initially, I found it difficult to understand unfamiliar legislation, but by asking questions and maintaining a positive attitude, I developed a better understanding of how the law is applied in practice.

What skills did you develop during the scheme and when did you notice yourself using them?

One skill I developed during Trowers & Hamlins’ vacation scheme was attention to detail. During a feedback session, a supervisor pointed out a spelling mistake and reminded me how important accuracy is. From then on, I paid closer attention to my work and learned to balance time management with accuracy. I also started taking short breaks before proofreading, which helped me return to my work with fresh eyes and spot mistakes more easily.

Were there any moments during the scheme that confirmed your desire to become a solicitor?

Writing an article analysing a recent judgment was a moment that confirmed my desire to become a solicitor. I was tasked with considering its wider impact on the construction industry, which required me to combine problem solving, legal analysis and commercial thinking. I really enjoyed seeing how a legal decision could have practical consequences for businesses across an entire sector. Through this, I realised that I enjoy the aspects of legal work that combine analysing complex issues, finding solutions and understanding the wider commercial context.

What’s one specific thing you did during the application or scheme that you think made a real difference to your training contract application?

I believe that being my authentic self on Trowers & Hamlins’ vacation scheme helped me secure a training contract. After being unsuccessful in a few application cycles, I stopped trying to fit my idea of what a solicitor should be like and focused on being myself. As we were mainly assessed through supervisor feedback, I found that being authentic allowed me to show the qualities I’d bring to Trowers & Hamlins. Without a final training contract interview, I could demonstrate these qualities in a more comfortable environment rather than trying to showcase everything in a single interview.

Other than attending a vacation scheme, what’s the most relevant experience you’ve had that’s benefited your journey to becoming a lawyer?

I spent two summers during university working at a children's summer camp in New York, which helped me develop several soft skills that have supported my journey into law. Working alongside 160 international staff, completing 12-hour days in 40-degree heat strengthened my resilience, communication, time management and ability to stay level-headed under pressure. Although it was a completely different environment from the law, I learned a lot about myself and the challenges I can overcome – all of which are relevant to a legal career.