When considering where to begin my legal career, Baker McKenzie stood out for its commitment to developing junior lawyers. I wanted to join a firm where I could learn from experienced practitioners, take on meaningful responsibilities and continue growing through hands-on experience. Since joining the Firm, one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey has been seeing the trust placed in me grow over time. As a trainee, I was given opportunities to contribute meaningfully to matters from an early stage. By demonstrating reliability and continuously learning from the lawyers around me, I was gradually able to take on greater responsibility and become more involved in client work, which has played a significant role in shaping me as a lawyer.

I am now a newly qualified lawyer in the Employment & Compensation team, and what I enjoy most about the practice is its breadth and variety. Employment law involves much more than workplace disputes. On any given day, I might be working on different matters at the same time, such as advising on the employment aspects of a large cross-border transaction, assisting with a workplace investigation, or helping clients navigate practical questions such as leave entitlements and statutory obligations. The diversity of work means that there is always something new to learn, and it allows me to develop both legal and commercial skills.

My advice to students and future trainees is to stay curious and embrace opportunities to learn, even when they take you outside your comfort zone. Some of the most valuable experiences come from working on unfamiliar matters and asking questions. If you approach each opportunity with an open mind and a willingness to learn, you will gain far more from your training and development journey.