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Many of us will be glad that COVID-19 lockdowns look to be firmly in the rear-view mirror, so personally and professionally we can make up for lost time and socialise with friends and colleagues again. As I approach my first year as a trainee at Michelmores, I have really enjoyed the social events to date across the London and Exeter offices, and look forward to those that are on the horizon.
First seat in London
I started my training contract in the CRD team in London. With that comes the unlimited social opportunities that the capital offers. With the London office now located in the buzzing Liverpool Street, impromptu drinks and frequent office get togethers were regular events that were really enjoyable. As a new starter, this was a great way to get to know my team as well as everyone else in the London office.
The particular social event that sticks in my mind from this seat was being taken to a karaoke bar within my first month at the firm. As I live in fear of karaoke, this was a way of conquering my demons, and now I can safely say never again!
Second seat in Exeter
I thoroughly enjoyed my time in London, so I was curious to see how the social life in the Exeter office would differ.
It was great to see that social events have shown no signs of abating in Exeter, and there is a real variety of things to do.
For example, I recently attended a hog roast at an Exeter Barristers’ Chambers, which meant being able to soak up the sun near the picturesque quayside, eat some delicious food, and put faces to the names of barristers we had instructed on various matters.
I’ve also been on a ride with Michelmores’ cycle network, which allowed me to spend time with colleagues outside of work and get to know some of the firm’s clients, whilst enjoying the lovely landscapes Devon has to offer.
Third seat in Bristol
My third seat will be in the firm’s Bristol office, so, by the time I finish my training contract, I will have had the opportunity to experience life at three of the firm’s offices. It is a real perk of the Michelmores training contract that the firm is so willing to support trainees who wish to explore our locations and enables us to make friends and grow our reputation internally. With the Bristol office being located by Bristol’s harbourside, I am certain there will be a lot on offer, and it will be a great opportunity to get to know more people across the firm. I am also hoping to attend some of the networking events hosted by Bristol Law Society and Bristol Young Professionals.
Final thoughts
The wide array of social events at Michelmores has been a great way as a new starter to get to know colleagues across the firm, not just those in the departments I have sat in. I’ve really valued the exposure this has also given me to clients, counsel and others outside the firm. I can see that this can help build a network that will potentially be invaluable in my later career as well as generally being great fun!
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