Atharva

Being in the penultimate year of my law degree at Symbiosis University, India, with a strong interest in Corporate Law and Arbitration, I often contemplated what it would be like to work at an international law firm, particularly one as highly reputed as Freshfields.

The two-week work experience programme at Freshfields’ Dubai office provided me with the ideal opportunity to gain first-hand exposure to such an environment. The programme proved to be one of the most engaging, enriching, and insightful phases of my legal journey thus far.

I had the opportunity to work with both the Dispute Resolution and Global Transactions teams. My responsibilities included conducting research on complex legal issues, reviewing contracts, and contributing to projects spanning multiple jurisdictions. These tasks not only broadened my understanding of diverse legal frameworks but also offered valuable insight into how an international law firm functions.

A particularly enriching aspect of the programme were the structured learning modules, which introduced me to areas of law that I previously explored only in a limited capacity. These included: Confidentiality, Sanctions, Privacy, and the legal implications of Artificial Intelligence, among others.

The modules encouraged analytical and innovative thinking, reinforcing the importance of adaptability in the evolving legal landscape. In addition, the programme offered numerous networking opportunities, allowing me to observe seasoned professionals in action and gain a deeper appreciation of the standards of professionalism, efficiency, and integrity upheld at the firm.

I am especially grateful to Ella Cook for her warm welcome and continued support throughout the programme. I would also like to thank Seif Ismail for providing valuable guidance on the firm’s operations, which greatly assisted my seamless integration into the workplace. My experience with the Global Transactions team was further enriched by the mentorship of Danial Zulfiqar, whose patient, thoughtful, and comprehensive approach played a pivotal role in fostering my professional growth within a short span of time. The workplace itself was truly exceptional, not only due to its state-of-the-art facilities, but also because of the inclusive and collaborative culture cultivated by its people.

Overall, my time at Freshfields was a transformative experience that strengthened my passion for corporate and transactional law while offering meaningful exposure to international legal practice. The programme provided a perfect balance of substantive legal work, structured learning, and mentorship, enabling both professional and personal growth. I leave this experience with a clearer understanding of my career aspirations, a deeper appreciation for excellence in legal practice, and immense gratitude for the individuals who made this journey both rewarding and memorable.