After winning the Strathclyde Mooting competition, Sam O'Neill was awarded a summer placement at Miller Samuel Hill Brown. We asked him to share his experience.
What inspires your desire to pursue a career in the field of law?
I have always been fascinated with the law from a young age. Primarily the most interesting part is the dynamic nature of the industry, no two days will ever be the same and I’m confident that I’ll never be bored when studying and working in the law. The experience and enjoyment I have gained through university, the societies I have taken part in and now my summer placement have only solidified my confidence that a legal career is right for me.
What motivated you to apply for a summer placement at MSHB?
I was aware of the firm and knew of the excellent work that their extremely skilled team carry out on a daily basis. During one of the competitions ran by my university society I had the pleasure of meeting with one of their solicitors who told me a little bit more about the firm and encouraged me to apply for their summer scheme.
Could you share your experience of working as a summer intern at MSHB?
As this is my first experience of a week in a legal office environment, I didn’t know what to expect from it. After completing the placement it has entirely exceeded my expectations. At MSHB you aren’t left to your own devices or wasting any time, you are actively encouraged to assist their team and contribute. Additionally, you are given an in depth experience of what a day as a solicitor in one of their various departments consists of which has been invaluable.
Did you learn anything new during your placement?
I’ve been given the chance to learn about areas of real practice and problem solving that I’ve never been faced with during my studies, especially in more niche areas of the law which may not be encountered until you are in practice.
What skill do you think is crucial for a lawyer but cannot be acquired through reading?
Primarily a skill I would advocate is carrying yourself with confidence. The opportunities that are afforded to you throughout your studies can only be attained if you put yourself forward.
What advice do you have for students interested in pursuing a summer placement?
Find firms which you think will be a good fit and send off applications! If possible try and speak to practising lawyers from that firm who can give you a better insight and maybe even put a face to your name during the process of reviewing applications. Putting yourself out there in terms of networking can be invaluable and proves that not everything is about having a stellar CV.
If you have been inspired by Sam, applications for the 2024 placement are now being considered, and the deadline is Friday, April 26, 2024.
To apply for a summer placement with Scotland's only member of the International Lawyers Network please submit your CV and a cover letter to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
