Case studies : Associate solicitor: Stephen

Stephen earned a degree in law from Durham University and went on to do his Legal Practice Course (LPC) at Nottingham Law School. He now works as an associate solicitor in employment and benefits at Allen & Overy.

I secured a vacation scheme with Allen & Overy in the summer after my second year as an undergraduate. At the end of the vacation scheme, I was interviewed and successful in obtaining a training contract. This involved four six-month 'seats' in different departments. I sat in corporate, two banking departments and the employment and benefits team. I have now been an associate for over three years after qualifying in employment and benefits.

It is possible to get as much responsibility as you can handle from day one. Increasingly, you become involved in training, recruitment and business development. I aim to keep learning new skills and progressing.

A typical day for me involves emails, conference calls (both UK and international), client and internal meetings, corporate/banking transactions, advisory work, legal research and drafting.

I enjoy the fast-paced transactional work and getting to grips with detailed documentation and legislation - all for a high profile client base. On the extra-curricular side, there are loads of social activities and sports teams to get involved with. The working environment is excellent with in-house restaurants as well as a health and wellbeing centre which includes a top-notch gym and sports hall. The downside of the job is having to work long hours when required and dealing with tight deadlines.

For me, the best thing about my job is having found a niche area of law which I am enthusiastic about. Law helps you learn about all different aspects of business and people, and it can also take you anywhere in the world.

My advice for other students is to try and do work experience, an open day or vacation scheme at least once to see if the environment's right for you. When it comes to applying for training contracts, don't apply to too many firms. It's better to focus on a few. Complete your applications well by doing your research and tailoring your answers appropriately.