How I took the law into my own hands at Pinsent Masons in Dublin

'Take the law into our own hands.’ 

I still remember the spark within me when I first heard that slogan at the Pinsent Masons open day. It guided me through A Levels, law school and interviews, giving me a sense of purpose and reminding me that I could make an impact. Four years later, I’m working as a summer intern for the very firm that fuelled my ambition to practise law.

My time at Pinsent Masons has passed in the blink of an eye, yet I will leave with more learning experiences than I ever could have envisaged. The impact the internship has had upon me is threefold: I have acquired additional legal knowledge, developed important skills and discovered what really matters within the workplace.

Firstly, I will admit that I had few preconceptions as to what TMT exactly entailed. Little did I know how passionate I would become about emerging technologies, commercial contracts and automated services such as SmartDelivery! I even drafted an Out-Law article on the Open Internet Access Regulations and subsequent effects they will have upon ISPs. Additionally, I worked on Project Hydra, with tasks including drafting cover letters, reviewing questionnaires for automation and conducting spot checks on addendums. I also attended conferences to develop my understanding of niche areas within the sector, such as counterfeiting and Fintech, and conducted personal research projects including a biometric data report on facial recognition within airports. Therefore, it is needless to say that my time has certainly been mentally stimulating, as I was able to fully immerse myself into tasks that would ultimately impact clients.

Secondly, the internship has strengthened my skills and fortified my values. Being a part of Pinsent Masons’ purpose, to, ‘champion change, promote progress and enable everyone, to make business work better for people’ has reinforced the importance of doing the right thing, pushing boundaries, growing together, finding the spark and bringing humanity into my work. I hope to incorporate each of these values into all future endeavours. I have also improved my communication, teamwork and research skills, to name a few.

Thirdly, Pinsent Masons has definitely set itself apart in terms of its culture. I was immediately welcomed with open arms into the TMT family. I was able to ask questions (even the silly ones), critique project plans and brainstorm solutions. This made the commute to work in the sweltering July heat enjoyable every single day, as I knew I was on my way to make a difference in an environment that valued my input. Moreover, I was grateful for the collegiate approach of the firm, as I got to know every single person, and this was not only due to the crossover of sectors, but also because of the friendly atmosphere and open office layout.

Overall, my internship with Pinsent Masons has exceeded my expectations. Not only has it confirmed that law is the perfect field for me, but also that culture, client-focus and collegiality are all integral for a rewarding and enjoyable career.