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I have always been involved in projects where it is not only necessary to budget but to make a profit (e.g. to raise funds). This has allowed me first hand to appreciate the importance of risk allocation, extensive research and achieving objectives. This has developed into a genuine regard for the commercial sector as I believe the competitive and goal orientated environment is hugely exciting. The high profile of commercial law means that it permeates all aspects of life. A prime example was the recent developments in respect to the selling off of the rights to the Mr. Men characters! I have a scientific family background and an external passion of Pharmaceuticals and the biotechnology. Through this I have monitored the mergers, license applications, patent law and litigation, all of which is equally fascinating.
I have enjoyed the economics/ law based elements of the law course, in particular where law is being constantly adapted to change with the times and allow for commercial imperatives. We are doing a full module on Remedies in Contract and tort which has a strong emphasis on commercial situations. I have enjoyed this and hope that working as a commercial solicitor will allow a good balance between referring to the law itself and using common sense and perception to produce the best outcome for the client.
My interest in event organisation and participation in team sports has help me acquire experience and understand the importance of working as a team. Amongst other fund-raisers I organise the Annual Charity Horse Show which can expect up to 150 competitors. Team work and communication is vital for both enjoyment and safety.For the three months prior to the event there are weekly meetings of sub-committees where decisions are made and duties delegated. As the organiser, it is my job to motivate and encourage the other members, trying to assign jobs that they are most comfortable with. There are countless tasks from schedule development to advertising and sponsorship. I am normally in charge of creating sponsorship packages, arranging the venue/ ambulance/ caterers and recruiting Judges and helpers for the day. Nearer to the event I am responsible for processing entries, answering queries and sending out times. I share these duties with one other which means a communicative working relationship, so as not to contradict each other.
On the day I will oversee the rotation of over 20 volunteers, alleviating them and primarily keeping them happy. It is imperative that everyone knows what they are doing as many shifts include traffic control, supervising the warm up area and manning the collecting ring before people jump. There are strict time restrictions and the competitors expect a professional environment, however without good communication it quickly descends into chaos.
Predominantly I like to be an active member of a team, be it as Captain, chairperson or alternatively within a more subordinate role. I believe that I am empathetic and sociable person who will not only put my view forward but will listen to others. As an outgoing character, I am careful to always encourage input from all sides. Motivation is crucial in any team context and I consider optimism and focus as a personal strength.
Although I am equally happy to work independently, I consider the attraction of a shared purpose and the gaining an alternative perspective unrivalled. This is illustrated by the teams, committees and focus groups within which i have participated. The advantages of team work could only prove to be enhanced within the environment due to the dynamic group of employees and clients. I have experience liaising with a wide range of organisations that are outside of the specific discipline within which i'm working(for example the police and the MOD- for traffic control, safety and land licences). I am adaptable and adjust quickly to new environments. I hope this would be of value at Linklaters where the range of work offered is so broad and the subject matter consistently challenging.
Links
There are many aspects of Linklaters that has influenced my application. The primary reason was the impression of the firm that I gained from both the presentation evening on the 20/10/03 and other information evenings given at UCL. My personal experiences of the employees have been nothing but positive. The representatives, from trainees through to the partners were highly approachable and helpful. There was a strong feeling that trainees would be highly valued and respected as both part of the working team and for what one could offer as an individual. I am a very social character and it is important to me that the firm encourages a well rounded person. Being surrounded by interesting but hard working people would allow me to exercise my full potential.
I intend to pursue a career in a firm of international status in order to continue to experience the cultural diversity that has been available in London and at University. The added incentive of working at the biggest firms is the scope of work available. One of the principal attractions of the law has always been the wealth of opportunities that it provides and the breadth of practice areas. I believe that Linklaters' client base and areas of expertise serve to fully emphasize this.
Being in such a demanding environment would help me fulfill my potential as I enjoy striving to achieve objectives. This is maximised when I am placed in a challenging or highly stressed situation. Both employment positions and general life experience has helped me to learn to cope in a pressured environment. The concept of combining individual and team work in order to reach goals will provide the right balance between independence and support. The dynamic group of people associated with Linklaters, both client and employee will ensure that the tasks are challenging whilst being stimulating.
I have a genuine interest in travel and have backpacked through South America. I am interested in the economic development in different parts of the world, particularly in those emerging markets. The opportunity to travel is appealing, as is being part of an organisation that has almost unlimited scope to expand.
The reputation of Linklaters that precedes it is an attractive but not exclusive factor. It is a combination of the atmosphere that the firm has conveyed, the career opportunities available and the structure of training that has prompted my application.
