Sarah Cronin

Name Sarah Cronin
Job Trainee Solicitor
Employer Maples and Calder, Dublin
Education BA Legal Science, Sociology and Politics (2003), LLB (2004), NUI Galway; Master of Commercial Law (2005), University College Dublin

While undertaking my BA degree I attended various careers days and fairs. Meeting lawyers and hearing about their experiences gave me a real sense of excitement and confirmed for me that I wanted to go into legal practice.

I had always hoped to do my traineeship with a large international corporate firm and I'm now a trainee solicitor with an international firm in Dublin. It's a full service firm so I'm gaining experience across corporate, finance, funds, litigation and property law. Doing a rotation in each department really allows you to get a feel for where you want to specialise.

Initially I assumed that I'd be working as an assistant, but my role is incredibly hands on and I've been a core member of the team working on multi-million Euro transactions. I have direct contact with clients, involvement in meetings and conference calls and have really benefited from sharing an office with partners.

I'm currently part of the Corporate team working on major transactions including Ireland's largest debt restructuring project and a 'take-private' of a listed company. It's a job in itself keeping up with all the new developments that arise on any given project, but I have a great support network around me. It's also very motivating to read about the deals you're working on in the press!

I've now completed two rotations – Finance and Corporate. The highlight to date was my secondment to our Hong Kong office for six months. This was an amazing experience and a milestone of my career so far. Being able to take an international rotation adds another string to the bow of Maples and Calder and was a strong attraction to me.

Without doubt the best thing about my job is the level of involvement that I have in the deals that are being worked on. Although deadlines can be stressful, pulling together to get things done as a team is very satisfying. I'm constantly challenged, which is something that I've always wanted from my career.

Job-hunting tips

Given the calibre of applicants these days, high levels of academic achievement is a given. The best advice I could give is that it's also important to demonstrate a passion for law and an interest in the firm you are applying to. Your personality and strength of character are just as relevant as your academic achievements.