My day at Norton Rose Fulbright by Penny Michael

I found out about MyPlus Students’ Club through an advertisement at my university, I was interested to see what MyPlus Students’ Club was and what it could offer so I signed up. Whilst researching your website I came across the “Win a day” competition and thought I’d try my luck! My name is Penny Michael and I am currently studying the Legal Practice Course and LLM in Professional Legal Practice at the University of Law in Bloomsbury. I was formally diagnosed with dyslexia during my undergraduate degree at BPP university though I did not receive proper support for this until studying my LPC.

Whilst I was at Norton Rose Fulbright I was able to get a real insight of the firm. It was organised that I would shadow an associate in the banking, debt and finance team who was dealing with shipping finance, and a trainee who was in her second seat in the general banking department. I also had coffee with a partner in the firm who was part of the recruitment team where we were able to talk about where I am currently at and what the firm would be looking for should I apply there. Lastly, I had a meeting with the trainee recruitment manager at the end of the day to discuss my day and go through any further questions that I may have.  The recruitment team advised how I should approach questions when I should aim to get my applications in and for candidates with disabilities they explained that you could be given additional time if you are entitled to it.

Whilst I didn’t get the chance to meet employees in the department I want to apply for, I still got a good insight into the department that I sat with. Though I still found the department where I sat beneficial as I am now considering when I get a TC to seat in the banking department as I was able to learn the different areas that it involves – it is not only banking it is also shipping finance.

I would definitely recommend My Plus Students Club and the “Win A Day” competition, as not only does it give you an insight into a firm/business of your choice. It allows you to gain experience, which you are able to put on your CV, and motivates you and reassures your ability.

I wouldn’t say I have a favourite part of the day as it was all enjoyable, from the work that I learnt to the conversations with all staff that played a part in the day. I loved that everybody was so approachable and friendly.

NRF was amazing, thank you for the opportunity it really gave me a warm insight into the firm and the people were very approachable.

Thanks, Penny!