For the next MHC Intern Life, we talked to Aimée Gallagher, who studied Law (LLB) in Trinity College Dublin. Aimée went on to do a masters in public international law in the University of Amsterdam. She tells us about the department she's working in and her first impressions of the firm.
What inspired you to study law?
I have always been interested in law because it is intertwined and woven into everything we do in life. I love how the law is ever-changing and evolving and that there is always something new to learn. In Transition Year, I did my work experience in a law firm and loved the fast-paced, dynamic nature of the work and how every day was different. I loved attending court hearings and meeting with clients. After this experience, I was sure that a career in law was for me.
Where did you study and why?
I studied law at Trinity College Dublin and did a Masters in public international law at the University of Amsterdam. I decided to study at Trinity because I wanted to go to university in Dublin and I loved the idea of studying in the city centre. I had a great undergraduate experience and made friends for life. I decided to undertake a Masters degree at the University of Amsterdam because I wanted to experience living and studying abroad and the university offered a wide range of interesting modules to choose from. I thoroughly enjoyed studying in an international environment and got to meet people from all over the world.
What department are you working with at MHC?
I am working in the Financial Services department. I had no previous experience working in this area, so I was very excited to try something new. I am lucky to be involved in both the debt capital markets team and the banking team. This is enabling me to gain a broad perspective into the work done in the department. The work is extremely interesting, and I feel like I am learning a lot. Everyone in the department is very friendly and accommodating and they have made me feel very welcome from the outset. I am very grateful for the opportunity to intern in Financial Services and am eager to learn as much as I can about the area.
What is your favourite quote?
My favourite quote would have to be ‘it always seems impossible until it’s done’ by Nelson Mandela. As an intern, it can be quite daunting when you are given work to do, especially in an area of law that is as complex as banking, but I think that it is so important to challenge yourself and to give everything a go. It is important to remember that everyone has to start somewhere and that anything can be achieved with a positive mindset.
What was your first impression of MHC?
The firm has a good reputation for being a very friendly law firm and I am happy to say it lives up to this reputation. In fact, it has exceeded my expectations! There is such a positive and warm atmosphere in the office and this energy was palpable from the moment I walked through the door.
In Financial Services, everyone has taken the time to introduce themselves and offer help when needed. Despite being so busy, everyone is very approachable and happy to take the time to explain things. I think the atmosphere cultivated within the firm makes it an ideal place to learn and to grow professionally because you are not afraid to ask for help when you need it.
There is a real focus on teamwork and collaboration within the firm. I was surprised at the level of interaction between the different departments and how often they work together on different aspects of a case. This is a firm where you are encouraged to excel professionally, and everyone really wants you to succeed.
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