The legal consultant programme is different to training programmes outside of China: you come in as an intern and see how you like the firm. You can then be offered a position as a legal consultant in one of the Freshfields practice teams for two-to-three years. I chose ECM as I really like the fast-paced and exciting work.
 
There’s a variety of work within the team: different deals, big and small, and we have a variety of roles, including acting for issuers or underwriters. Equity capital work requires a lot of commercial awareness and business sense, as well as legal technical knowledge, to find a commercially viable solution that also keeps within the rules.
 
One of our Being Freshfields values is “we are there for one another”, which really resonates with me. Collaboration helps us deal with the very complicated tasks we have to deliver in a short timeframe. That means observing teammates, offering help and stepping into any gaps. Looking after each other is a key part of Freshfields culture.
 
I’d advise any thinking of joining Freshfields to be prepared to take on a lot of responsibility fast. Be courageous and try hard. Everyone here in the Beijing and Shanghai office is supportive and happy to help.