I completed a Bachelor of Business and Law at University College Dublin and graduated in 2020. In my final year of my degree, I applied for the William Fry Traineeship Programme and was offered a traineeship contract which I started in April 2022. The interim period between finishing my degree and starting in William Fry was extremely beneficial in allowing me to not only complete my FE-1s but also to travel. This is just one small example of the William Fry traineeship programme facilitating the best personal and professional development.
My time as a trainee solicitor at William Fry has been an incredibly rewarding experience. From day one, I was immersed in a variety of legal disciplines through a structured rotation system. I have worked in the Technology, Corporate M&A, Banking and Finance and Employment and Pensions departments. The four-seat structure of the training contract and extensive offering varying teams to work with demonstrates the firm’s innovative and collaborative approach to learning and development, ensuring a challenging and diverse traineeship.
A highlight of my training contract has been the opportunity to complete my corporate rotation in the William Fry London office. This allowed me to build relationships with the London team and provided an international exposure to corporate M&A and private equity deals. As a trainee in the London office, I attended a variety of networking events improving my networking skills and building relationships with clients. The secondment to London not only enhanced my legal expertise but also facilitated an invaluable commercial and business learning experience.
The trainee community at William Fry is vibrant and supportive. I was assigned a buddy to help me navigate my rotations, and I am on the trainee social committee which is tasked at organising various events throughout the year to foster collaboration, teamwork and networking. Additionally, the firm offers a comprehensive mentorship programme, pairing trainees with senior colleagues who provide guidance and support throughout our journey.
In summary, life as a trainee solicitor at William Fry LLP has been both challenging and rewarding. The comprehensive training programme, strong mentorship and culture, and unique opportunities have ensured that I am well-prepared for a successful career in law.