Wrapping up an internship experience

With a strong focus on developing the future cohort of Hobart lawyers, it was a pleasure for Groom Kennedy to give Avia an experience in a corporate law firm in Hobart. Avia is entering her second year of university, and we have no doubt she has a bright future ahead.

Avia had the below reflections about her experience:

What were you hoping to gain from your time at Groom Kennedy?

I was eager to gain firsthand experience in a legal firm. I wanted to see how everything I learned in my first year are used in a real-world setting. I was also excited to meet new people in the legal community and step outside my comfort zone.

What was the most valuable skill or lesson you learned during your time with us?

Embracing the challenge of being uncomfortable! At first, it felt daunting, but I learned that adapting to the unexpected is a valuable skill. It was rewarding to push past that initial discomfort and feel like a part of the team.

Was there a particular moment or task that stood out to you as especially interesting or rewarding?

There were so many! From learning how the internal systems work to assisting with some drafting tasks —it was all rewarding. I’ve developed rewarding practical skills like editing contracts, reviewing precedents, conducting legal research, and drafting memorandums. I also had the opportunity to visit the Supreme Court, which was a new experience for me!

What advice would you give to students considering an internship/clerkship in a law firm?

It’s an exciting challenge that accelerates your practical skills. No matter what level you’re at or how much legal knowledge you have, the experience is invaluable. Before this internship, I had only studied Torts and Foundations, but now I’ll go into my Contracts course with a significant advantage. It provides great insight into what a legal career entails and how your studies apply in practice.

Has this experience influenced your thoughts about your future career path in law?

My passion for law has grown during this internship!  I’m now even more eager to work in a law firm, and I have a much clearer understanding of what’s involved –something that university doesn’t always teach you. This experience has given me a new sense of direction and intention as I continue my studies. The brilliant team here has inspired me, and I feel blessed to have been a part of this – thanks so much GK!

We wish Avia all the best in her studies and career ahead!

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