Profile (as at Summer 2007)

I've had a work experience student sitting with me the week I write this. Seeing my life at Lovells through her eyes has really highlighted to me how lucky I am to be here. She has commented several times on how friendly everyone seems, both to her and also just generally throughout the firm. I'm not going to say that I wake up every morning jumping with joy at the prospect of spending the day in an office but I do genuinely look forward to work on pretty much every day.

The people in my department (Investment Funds) couldn't be more approachable and inclusive; they have a wealth of knowledge between them and are keen to pass this on to the trainees. It's amazing how much I've learnt in six months and the work I've been given has been for the most part challenging and interesting. During my time in investment funds I have spent much of my time drafting the documentation necessary for setting up different types of investment fund, doing discreet pieces of research and drafting advice to clients on their proposed investment in certain funds. Throughout my seat I have had plenty of client contact — last week I even received a huge Fortnum & Mason 'ladies pamper hamper' (chocolate, champagne, soaps etc) from a client in thanks for the work we'd done on their property investment fund. I've been given much more responsibility than I'd expected but never been made to feel out of my depth. I think this is one of Lovells' particular strengths, pushing you and challenging you, but at the same time never leaving you without someone to ask questions of and seek guidance from.

At Lovells the trainees are given their entire seat plan by the end of their first seat. The process leading up to the allocation involves talks from the departments about the type of work they do and attending meetings with HR. Although it seemed a bit daunting to decide your whole seat plan in the first six months, there was plenty of information available. For example, a 'seat planning fair' takes place, during which representatives from each department are available at a drinks evening to answer any questions. I was very happy with the seats I was allocated, I'll be moving on to Tax, Real Estate and then finally City Litigation. I am also planning to apply for the international secondment to Hong Kong which (if I were successful) would take me there in March for six months.

I had my doubts, before starting in March, whether becoming a City solicitor is the right path for me (having considered becoming a barrister or going into academia) but I'm happy to be able to say that my first six months at Lovells has confirmed that it is.