During my penultimate year at university, I was attracted by the proposition of practicing as a solicitor both in Australia and overseas.

I was particularly interested in a London placement because I had previously studied in the UK and thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere and vitality of the City. In addition, London offers the opportunity to work with international clients on varied and high profile deals.

I was very interested in applying to Herbert Smith because it is so well regarded. My own research identified that Herbert Smith stood out as an exceptional international law firm which attracted diverse and talented people. It was therefore an exceedingly simple decision for me apply for a position on the vacation scheme in 2005.

After completing a summer internship in Australia, I undertook the vacation scheme at Herbert Smith in London. A vacation scheme is the UK equivalent of a summer internship. During the scheme, I had the opportunity to meet many partners and associates. My positive views of Herbert Smith were very much confirmed. Although Herbert Smith is a large London law firm, I found that the atmosphere was particularly personable and the partners and staff were very accommodating and helpful.

During the vacation scheme I had the benefit of working in two particularly diverse departments, international arbitration and corporate. Realising this opportunity gave me the chance to work closely with associates from both areas thus enabling me to cultivate a more informed understanding of the daily life, both within and outside the working environment of a London city lawyer. I was impressed with the overall commitment to staff well being which fostered, I believe, an inclusive atmosphere and pleasant working environment.

The vacation scheme also provided many fun social activities and the opportunity to meet other students. The many social events were varied and imaginative, with the treasure hunt around London and the spectacular stage show 'Guys and Dolls' being particular highlights.

At the end of the vacation scheme, I had an interview with two partners for a place on the Training Programme at Herbert Smith. At every stage of the process, I found the interviewers were genuinely interested in my experiences and I was afforded unlimited opportunities to ask questions.

I was admitted as a solicitor in NSW in September 2006 and started at Herbert Smith in March 2007. During my two year training programme at Herbert Smith, I will undertake the Qualified Lawyers Transfer Test (QLTT). This is a conversion examination that enables Australian lawyers to qualify as solicitors in England and Wales. This has the advantage of allowing Australian lawyers to have dual qualifications.

The experience of working in London is a unique opportunity and has very much lived up to my expectations.