Hi Mukuma, could you please introduce yourself and briefly explain your legal journey so far
Mukuma: I recently graduated with an LLB Law degree from the University of Manchester. I chose to study law because I believe it plays an essential role in society and shapes how people operate within it. Coming from Zambia, where barristers and solicitors are not distinguished, I spent my first year attending events held by firms and chambers. These experiences helped me decide that the solicitor route was ideal for me.
During my first year, I realised I was predominantly interested in commercial law. As social expectations around business shifted, I felt companies were no longer solely focused on profit, creating an exciting context in which to advise clients. I completed two vacation schemes, one at DLA Piper in my second year and another at Herbert Smith Freehills in my third year. I will commence my training contract at Herbert Smith Freehills LLP in 2023.
Why did you decide to complete your training contract at Herbert Smith Freehills?
Mukuma: My interest in Herbert Smith Freehills began after attending an Inside the Headlines presentation. I appreciated how deeply the firm went to help attendees understand the work of a solicitor and the business of law. It showed me that people at the firm would be willing to answer questions and support me throughout my training.
I also felt comfortable speaking to lawyers of all seniorities, and that feeling continued during my vacation scheme. I wanted to train at a firm strong in both disputes and corporate work so that I could sit in a range of high-quality seats. The firm has worked on novel and complex matters, including the UK's first deferred prosecution. It covers sectors such as Technology, Media and Telecommunications and Energy, which I am keen to explore.
Lastly, I was impressed by the firm's commitment to supporting employees and allowing them to shape their career journeys. This care extends beyond lawyers to graduate recruitment, human resources and other parts of the business. It reassures me that whichever route I take within the firm, I will be supported.
You were a campus ambassador for Herbert Smith Freehills. What did you gain from this experience, and would you recommend it to other students
Mukuma: I would highly recommend being a campus ambassador for any firm you are interested in. As the first point of contact for many students, I had to know a lot about Herbert Smith Freehills, which made it easier to write my application and attend assessment centres. Campus ambassadors also get opportunities to speak directly with graduate recruitment and other members of the firm.
The role helps develop skills such as communication, public speaking, organisation, and social media management. Depending on the firm's application process, being a campus ambassador can also shorten your vacation scheme application. For example, at Herbert Smith Freehills,s you would not have to redo the psychometric testing.
How did your society roles help you during vacation scheme applications
Mukuma: There were five main ways my society roles helped me. Preparing workshops for Urban Lawyers North required research that helped me understand the application process. These workshops involved speakers who shared what graduate recruitment looks for.
Being on a committee demonstrated teamwork. As Vice President, I became more comfortable speaking to people from different firms and organisations and taking initiative in building relationships. I also learned how to handle difficult conversations and rejections when seeking sponsorship.
As First Year Representative, I spoke to lecture halls and engaged with a wide range of people. This strengthened my communication skills and made it easier to express my interests. My committee and regular attendees also became a valuable network I could rely on for advice.
You completed a vacation scheme at Herbert Smith Freehills before securing a training contract. What advice do you have for standing out
Mukuma: I do not think you need to try to stand out. It is more important to show that you are interesting and interested.
To show you are interesting, explore the parts of the firm and its work that genuinely appeal to you. You will naturally seem more enthusiastic when you speak about areas you care about.
To show you are interested, ask questions. Listen actively to lawyers, graduate recruiters, and other participants. Show interest in the work you are given and in any meetings or presentations. You do not need elaborate questions. If you know something about a subject and want to learn more, ask a specific question.
I recommend preparing around three general questions for one-to-one conversations. These can help you gather information or buy time to form a better question. Listening carefully to answers can help you create more nuanced follow-up questions and leave a good impression.
Commercial awareness is important for future lawyers. What do you think is the biggest challenge facing the legal sector right now
Mukuma: I think the rise of biotech and infotech. This will affect all sectors and possibly humanity. It will be interesting to see how the law adapts as technology takes on an increasing role in our lives.
The challenges will extend beyond privacy to medical law, competition law and criminal law. Lawyers will also need to outline the value they bring as algorithms become better decision makers.
If there is one piece of advice you wish you had known before applying for vacation schemes and training contracts, what would it be
Mukuma: Believe in the value you can bring to a firm. After receiving rejections, it's easy to apply to any firm, but you deserve to be at a firm that suits you and that you genuinely want to join.
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