Charlotte's experience at the Pinsent Masons Vacation Programme

After first hearing about Pinsent Masons at a school law conference, Charlotte Gourley attended one of our Schools Work Inspiration Days and went on to complete work experience and a vacation placement in our Belfast office. Since then, she hasn’t looked back.

Here, trainee Charlotte tells us about her journey to become a lawyer:

"I had such a positive experience with Pinsent Masons when I was in school, which encouraged me to apply for the Pinsent Masons vacation placement in my second year of university. I saw it as an opportunity to build my confidence and explore a potential career in commercial law.

After successfully gaining my spot on the vacation placement programme, I joined the employment team, which was welcoming and made me feel part of the team from the very first day. I had the opportunity and support to help me develop my legal skills. I was exposed to interesting cases, drafted witness statements, and got the chance to practice drafting letters to send to clients.

During the week, I also got involved with the diversity networks and was given an insight into the community work in which the Belfast office is involved, which impressed me.

This experience affirmed that Pinsent Masons would be a good fit for me as I was impressed by the different networks within the firm and opportunities for personal growth. I am thrilled to be progressing with Pinsent Masons and have gone on to start my training contract with the firm.

My advice to anyone applying for a training contract or starting out on their legal career would be to believe in yourself and have confidence. It can seem intimidating at first, but it is important to trust the process and focus on your own goals.”

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