Nicholas Quah
Associate, Antitrust Competition and Trade
I was in my penultimate year of law school when I had to decide whether or not I would pursue the practice of law
During the annual Hong Kong Law Fair in Sydney, I met a partner from Freshfields who gave me an idea of the work the firm does and encouraged me to apply for the vacation scheme, which I was then selected for. Subsequently, I was offered a training contract.
As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another
If you read the graduate brochure from cover to cover, you will notice that Freshfields has an inclusive and diverse culture, and employs people from very different backgrounds and nationalities. There is a saying that, ‘as iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another’. At Freshfields you work alongside people of such high calibre and competence that you’re constantly challenged to better yourself.
Organisation is an important skill as a trainee
As a trainee, you’ll be involved in cross-border deals with time-zone differences. I start my day by checking my Blackberry for any urgent emails that may have come in overnight. I then make a to-do list for the day to keep me organised and prioritise the important tasks. Organisation is one of the skills you will quickly pick up as a trainee here in Freshfields. During the day, I assist in tasks such as legal research, document review or drafting and amending transaction documents. Sometimes you are called into conference calls or meetings with the clients, so even as a trainee you’re very much involved in the transactions and are treated as part of the team from day one.
The firm invests in its staff and trainees
Freshfields prioritises the nurturing and development of our people. In Hong Kong, we have a dedicated learning and development team which organises training and seminars for trainees to ensure we remain knowledgeable and proficient. Even before you join Freshfields you are invited to the firm’s social events and will also be given the opportunity to undertake Mandarin classes, fully sponsored by the firm.
Your attitude determines your altitude
Qualities like being ethical, academically strong and a team player are highly valued in our profession. However, it is also important to know that it is okay to not have every skill in the checklist at this stage. Freshfields doesn’t only look at who you are now, but at who you can be. Your attitude determines your altitude, and the sky’s the limit. Start in the right firm and you’re halfway there.
Ready to apply? Start filling in your application form now (you’ll be directed to our online application site).