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I decided to do my training contract with Lovells immediately after attending the assessment day. As with many City firms, Lovells maintains a prestigious list of clients and has an excellent reputation for producing quality work. What set the firm apart, however, was the overall approachability of the partners, associates, and trainees. Additionally, I was very impressed with the commitment Lovells makes to its training programme. By doing so, Lovells gave me the impression that they were willing to invest in me, making me feel valued by the firm from the start.

I am American and studied law in London because I see this city as the Capital for international business law; thus, a firm that was truly international was a requirement for me. Lovells doesn't just have a few international affiliated offices, but an entire well-established and well-developed network of integrated offices to accommodate its international clients.

My first seat was in the Trusts Group of International Finance/Capital Markets. Given my interest in international business, it was a very good fit and my first experience was a positive one. I was given quality work and an ample amount of client contact. However, I didn't as if I had been thrown in at the deep end. I had a good rapport with my supervisor and felt comfortable to go to him with questions or seek assistance when I felt I was in over my head. I was given constant feedback, and when I made mistakes, which as a first-seat trainee is inevitable, I received constructive feedback. There was a real sense of teamwork and the group gave the whole picture when we are working on transactions, and not just a snippet of what is happening.

I have no doubt that I have chosen the right firm. There have been a few late nights and challenging situations, but that is par for the course when working in a City firm. More importantly, when those late nights and challenging situations arise, you have a team of people working alongside you.