What's your job about?
I am a Melbourne-based Associate at White & Case, currently rotating through the Land, Environment and Planning team.
This is my final rotation in the Graduate Program, having previously completed rotations in the Project Finance team in Melbourne and my overseas seat in the Construction team in Abu Dhabi.
Each of these rotations has been completely different, which has meant this question isn’t a super straightforward one. Overall, an 'average day' consists of drafting transaction documents, conducting due diligence, corresponding with clients and managing closings. During my time on the Project Finance team, I was fortunate to have worked on some major transactions that will shape Australia's energy sector in the future.
I have predominately worked within the renewable energy sector which is in line with the Firm’s focus in the APAC region and is a particular interest of mine. At the moment, as I am writing this, myself and the team have been working on a major transaction for one of the Firm's biggest renewable clients in Australia.
What's your background?
I have been lucky enough to grow up by the water on the Mornington Peninsula, just over an hour outside of Melbourne.
My first job at 15 was at the local IGA supermarket – where I ended up working for around six years before my first paralegal job. Whilst it didn’t feel like the flashiest job at the time, that experience ended up being crucial to obtaining a paralegal job (and ultimately my graduate position) down the line!
At University, I, like many others, changed between wanting to work in a million different areas of law. I took the approach of dipping my toe into almost everything to see what may stick. Throughout this process, I was able to study in Italy and undertake internships in family law and policy. Eventually, one day I decided to apply for a mentoring program with a firm I'd never really heard of. Being fortunate enough to be accepted, I was paired up with two lawyers (who are now my colleagues!). Out of this opportunity came a paralegal position at White & Case, where I worked with the Land, Environment and Planning team for almost two years, a clerkship and now a Graduate job with an international secondment. It is safe to say in my experience, you never know where something will lead you – so apply for every opportunity that takes your interest!
Could someone with a different background do your job?
Absolutely! The great thing about this job is that you work with people from all backgrounds. It is rare to find someone who has the same experiences as you – whether that be where you grew up, what degree you studied at university or how you ended up in this job. We all bring a unique perspective!
There are of course common characteristics that will make you a good lawyer, such as communication skills, problem-solving and a strong work ethic. And all the small things, you can pick up along the way through different pursuits – being a good team player, managing your time, being willing to ask for help and putting your hand up to assist others are crucial to succeeding in this field.
What's the coolest thing about your job?
The coolest thing about my job is the people I get to work with every day. Throughout my time at White & Case, I have met some of the smartest and kindest people who have become my colleagues and friends. With our work being so international, alongside my overseas seat in Abu Dhabi, I already know and am friends with people in other offices across the world who bring a fresh perspective as well!
There is so much to learn from everyone around you – whether that is technical skills, people management or just general advice!
What are the limitations of your job?
I think it is no secret that this job comes with long hours at times and a steep learning curve. It can be challenging at times to juggle the different projects you are working on, alongside learning about a new industry, project and how to be a junior lawyer. It can be exhausting at times, however, the support from my colleagues has been invaluable and there is always someone to talk through the challenges with!
3 pieces of advice for yourself when you were a student...