I read Politics, Philosophy and Economics at Oxford University, graduating in 2008 and completed the GDL and LPC at BPP Law School between 2009 and 2011.

I'm spending my first seat in Commercial Litigation – and have already encountered the high-quality of work and early responsibility that was promised when I applied. On my first day, I was sent to a trial at the High Court and have already been tasked with drafting pleadings, communicating directly with clients, opposing solicitors and counsel on a range of multi-jurisdictional work. The work has, so far, been varied and demanding and I genuinely feel like I'm learning something new every day – precisely what you want from a training contract. I've also taken on pro bono work with Fair Trials International and signed up to both a School Reading Scheme in Tower Hamlets and Law Works – an organisation which refers clients seeking free legal advice to the firm. The firm has a refreshingly real commitment to pro bono work and trainees are encouraged to get involved. Learning to run our own cases with pro bono work, gives us even more valuable experience.

My first contact with the firm was at a law fair, when it was still Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge. I was enticed by the opportunity to work for an International firm with an impressive client portfolio but a small intake of trainees. This meant a large amount of high-quality work and partner supervision and mentoring and minimal time spent cursing the photocopier.

I was impressed by the firm throughout the whole application process and assessment day and was infused by the genuine sense of collegiality that pervades the office. Since I've joined, everyone at the firm – from partners to support staff – have been very welcoming and happy to guide us through the initial teething process. As trainees, we've been made to feel part of the firm from day one. Testament to this is being invited to the annual client party at Somerset House in our first week and we always received invitations to internal Christmas and Summer parties before we joined.

In summary, if early responsibility and challenging work in a friendly working environment appeals, then from my early experience at the firm, I'd recommend a training contract here.