Waking up at 3:30 AM to seize an extraordinary day felt like a rush of adrenaline. Stepping into the freezing morning under a dark sky, dressed in crisp formals, I felt a unique sense of belonging—like I was becoming part of the fast-moving, ambitious world I had always dreamed of. My friend and I, two amateur travellers fuelled by excitement, successfully navigated our way to the train station. Boarding the train wasn’t just about getting from one place to another—it felt like stepping onto a path that might one day lead us to our dreams.

During the two-hour journey, filled with reading the news and catching up with a friend back home, we arrived at London Euston. Grabbing a quick breakfast in a café bustling with driven, busy professionals, I couldn’t help but feel the energy of the city. Soon, we found ourselves standing in front of the Herbert Smith Freehills office, ready to discover what the day held for us.

The moment we walked into the main area, we were greeted with name badges, notepads, and an itinerary for the day—a small but powerful reminder that we were stepping into a professional world. The first session set the tone perfectly, with Mr. Stephen Newby sharing his experience at HSF. His talk wasn’t just about the firm’s global presence but also about the human aspect of a legal career, reminding us that the work we aspire to do is as much about people as it is about law. The day unfolded with a case study led by James Robson, a senior associate. Exploring the HS2 v Siemens dispute, we delved into the facts, strategies, and outcomes, bridging the gap between textbook knowledge and real-world application. It was exhilarating to witness how theoretical principles translate into impactful legal decisions. This session particularly resonated with me, as it aligned seamlessly with my aspirations to work in commercial law. Next came a lively Q&A panel with trainees. They candidly shared their journeys, challenges, and personal growth, painting an inspiring picture of what life at HSF could look like. The final session—a comprehensive application workshop by Sara Medgyesi—offered invaluable insights into crafting standout applications, understanding selection processes, and refining our approach to opportunities in law.

As the day wrapped up and attendees filled the room with questions, I found myself deeply admiring the firm. The open day wasn’t just a showcase of HSF’s capabilities; it was a safe, inspiring space for learning and growth. It felt like a defining moment—a step closer to my goals.

On the journey back to Manchester, navigating the maze of the Tube, I reflected on two things: 1. The London tube is definitely a maze.
2. Herbert Smith Freehills is exactly the kind of firm I aspire to be part of—a place where ambition meets opportunity