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Lucy Li

Associate, Corporate

Lucy Li

Freshfields offers great variety for trainees

In my first three months in the DR practice, I had a variety of responsibilities and even attended an arbitration hearing – that kind of experience is really valuable.

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The firm has a great culture

Different offices and departments co-operate to offer our clients the highest quality service. Unlike other firms, we don’t engage in internal competition so we are efficient. For trainees and those on internships, our open structure means everyone is really helpful. Undertaking unfamiliar tasks is far less daunting when so many people are willing to provide guidance and answer questions. Even very senior colleagues are approachable and willing to share their experience.

Freshfields is very generous to trainees

We have amazing training opportunities: we get a six-month secondment in London and three months in either Beijing or Shanghai. It all adds to the feeling that the firm really cares about you and your development.

I would advise trainees to make the most of the experience. Be willing to help and you’ll meet more people – and build a wide range of experience. Try to attend as many social events and lunch seminars as you can, and talk to colleagues about their work, especially senior people who you may want to work with in future.

Responsibility and giving back to the community is a core part of the firm’s culture. Trainees and interns are all involved. Over the past few months I was involved in a race for charity and I have been an active participant in the Box for Hope project, where we provide necessary items to underprivileged children. It’s so rewarding.

Be yourself

The interview process is all about showing who you really are and sharing your experience. Don’t be too nervous – approach it as a casual chat. Both you and the interviewer want to be sure that Freshfields is the right choice for you. Use the opportunity to clarify anything you are unclear about concerning the firm.

But if you know you want to apply to the Hong Kong office, don’t wait around. The places are filled quickly.

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