Graduate Recruitment
Meet our people
Saiqa Kosar - Trainee
Accounting and Law, Manchester University
Why did you choose law?
I studied accounting and law at university. I thoroughly enjoyed both subjects but ultimately had to choose which to focus on.
My interest in pursuing a career in law stemmed from the impressions made whilst on work experience and during my degree. Through undertaking work experience in high street firms at the end of my second year at university, I was able to gain real insight into life as a lawyer and the nature of the work undertaken. I really enjoyed these placements as the work was varied and intellectually challenging. Ultimately I wanted to pursue a career which was interesting and exciting so law was the obvious choice.
How did you find the summer scheme?
The DLA Piper summer scheme was a brilliant opportunity to gain insight into the firm and to take part in ‘hands on’ legal work. The actual experience of being at the firm, meeting the people and the work I undertook confirmed my desire to pursue a career in this field. Every firm is different in terms of culture and personality and the scheme allows you to get a sense of whether that culture suits you.
During the two weeks, I sat in the real estate and IPT departments and was exposed to a variety of work for a number of high profile clients. Typical tasks included research, reviewing documents and drafting letters of advice. I was encouraged to get involved and ultimately the scheme gave me the opportunity to find out that DLA Piper was the right firm for me.
Why did you choose DLA Piper?
I chose DLA Piper because I wanted to work for an international law firm which allowed me to experience a broad range of high quality commercial work on a global level. Being ambitious I wanted to work for a firm which had high aspirations, provided quality training, which was strong yet supportive and had an environment where I would be challenged. DLA Piper stood out in this regard. It is a firm which is growing and where the opportunities are endless.
In terms of DLA Piper Manchester, I had exposure to this office through running the DLA Piper debating society at Manchester University. From speaking to current employees and through visiting the offices, I was impressed by the friendly atmosphere and the enthusiasm shown by everyone. This, coupled with the fact that I love Manchester, made DLA Piper the perfect place to embark upon my future career.
How's your training contract been so far?
So far I've experienced property litigation and finance and, as I had hoped, I have been exposed to high quality work for well-known clients. The work we do is at the same level as in London but with the bonus of a Manchester lifestyle attached.
What are your ambitions at DLA Piper?
My ambition is to qualify as a solicitor and become an expert lawyer in the area of law I choose to qualify into.
What's the best thing about DLA Piper?
To sum up, if you want a law firm which is friendly, supportive and embracing, with a career that is exciting, interesting and challenging, then DLA Piper is the best place for you.
How about voluntary work?
The firm encourages you to go out and get involved in charitable activities. We recently planted a sensory garden in a community centre and I’ve also gone into local schools to conduct mock interviews and show students what the world of work is really like.
