I graduated from Monash University in 2023 with a Bachelor of Law and Commerce. Throughout my studies, I developed a strong interest in the intersection of law and business, which led me to pursue a career where I could apply both fields.
I was particularly drawn to roles in law that involved commercial aspects, as I enjoyed the subjects I studied and was eager to put the concepts learned in the classroom into practice. This interest ultimately led me to consider a career in commercial litigation, where I could combine my passion for law with my interest in business.
The clerkship experience at Mills Oakley was perfect for me. I appreciated that the clerkship lasted six weeks, which is relatively longer than most, and that there was the option to rotate. Being early in my career, the rotation aspect was an invaluable opportunity to experience different areas of law and practice groups, helping me gain a well-rounded understanding of the firm’s work.
My advice to others would be to try as many different practice areas and teams as possible. It’s a low-risk, high-reward opportunity to explore areas of law you might really enjoy and develop a passion for. The experience is a great way to learn as much as you can and to find the right fit for your future career.
The clerkship experience was fundamental in shaping what I want out of my legal career. It provided a great opportunity to learn by engaging with colleagues and working alongside them as they built their practices. The exposure to various aspects of legal work helped me gain a clearer understanding of my professional goals.
During the clerkship, I had the chance to experience both front-end transactional work in M&A and corporate advisory, as well as back-end dispute resolution and advisory work within the commercial disputes and insolvency team. This diverse experience allowed me to gain valuable insights into different facets of the legal profession.
The transition into the firm has been smooth, thanks to the ample support provided through the formal structure of the program, as well as the informal support fostered by the firm’s culture. From partners to junior-level lawyers, everyone has been approachable and willing to offer guidance.
Throughout my clerkship and graduate year, I had the opportunity to rotate across various teams, and in every team, colleagues were generous with their time, offering both personal and professional support.
There are plenty of opportunities and initiatives, both formal and informal, to help with development and learning. For example, there are CPD programs, feedback from mentors and colleagues, and the assignment of a buddy throughout my rotations—all of which have greatly contributed to my growth.