As part of our MHC Life Series, we chatted with intern Isabelle Tierney, who talks us through all things from her journey to law, playing touch rugby for Ireland, and her love for writing.

Why did you choose law?

I was one of those people who knew what they wanted to do at a relatively young age. I was very into debating and reading, and it didn’t take long before I got the ‘you are great at arguing, you should be a lawyer!’ comments. In transition year I was lucky enough to do work experience and learn all about having a career as a solicitor versus a barrister.

By the time I was 17, I was determined to study law. What drew me to the corporate law world was that I come from a family business background, so I always had a keen understanding and interest in business. This led me to pursue law and business as an undergraduate degree, combining the two areas I was interested in.

What department are you working with in MHC?

I am working in the Employment and Benefits department. I did Employment Law last term, so I am really enjoying it.

Where did you study and why?

I studied in Trinity College Dublin. I remember going on a tour there and just getting the feeling of 'This university was for me'. I visited a few other universities and didn’t have that same feeling. Other factors were its reputation, particularly for debating, and its prime location in Dublin city.

What pastimes do you enjoy?

I spend the majority of my time playing touch rugby. I am on the Ireland Women’s Touch Rugby Squad and was due to get my first cap last May before the pandemic cancelled a lot of our tournaments. I also play tag rugby socially, so rugby takes up a large chunk of my time. My other hobbies include debating and writing; I’ve contributed to research papers, and I was on the Trinity Philosophical Society’s Women’s debating team.

What’s your idea of a perfect holiday?

I love activity-based holidays, skiing is probably my favourite because I much prefer cold weather to warm weather. I like to keep busy as I get bored doing nothing for more than two or three days straight.

What were your first impressions of MHC?

I am really enjoying the internship and the general atmosphere in MHC. I love the friendly and relaxed atmosphere among all of the employees and how welcoming everyone has been.

If you weren't pursuing law, what would you be doing?

If I decided that law wasn't for me, I would have probably taken the business route. I am interested in general business knowledge and economics so perhaps a consultancy style role. Other than that, I may have pursued my interests in language and research and become a writer of sorts.

Head over to our Summer Intern Programme page or the Graduate Hub for more information on our internship programme.