Featuring: Freshfields

Emma Leung

Trainee Solicitor, Hong Kong

Before I joined Freshfields as a trainee in August 2023, I was already familiar with the firm, having worked here as a paralegal. But stepping into the training contract was a totally different experience – and it’s been one that I’ve greatly enjoyed.

I’m currently in my seventh seat, back in the corporate team in Hong Kong. Over the past year and a half, I’ve moved through dispute resolution, finance, antitrust, and even spent six months in London with our financial institutions disputes group. Each new seat has felt like starting afresh, which was both the toughest and most exciting part. Early on, I remember feeling overwhelmed by how quickly we rotated through practice areas. You're thrust into a new discipline every three months, and need to get your bearings quickly. It’s a little stressful at first – but once you adjust, you realise you're developing an incredibly valuable skill: adaptability.

I discovered early in my training that I’m drawn to disputes work – maybe because it’s analytical and closely tied to the substantive law itself, with plenty of research, strategic thinking, and a real intellectual challenge. I still vividly remember my first seat in disputes, where just three weeks into my training contract I pulled an all-nighter alongside two associates on an urgent case. It sounds intense (it was!), but strangely, it was one of my best moments at Freshfields. Sitting together in the office until 11 am the next day, buoyed by an early morning McDonald’s, created a real sense of camaraderie. To this day, I’m close with those teammates. That experience not only defined my enthusiasm for disputes – it made me feel like part of the team.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my traineeship has been sensing my own growth. Now, in my second stint in corporate, I’m seeing first-hand how far I’ve come. Tasks that initially seemed daunting now feel manageable. I have a better sense of what questions I should be asking, I’m calmer when faced with new projects, and I have greater confidence navigating complex tasks. It’s a quiet but genuinely satisfying feeling.

Another part I’ve truly valued is the supportive culture among trainees and the teams. At Freshfields, ‘being there for each other’ isn't just a tagline – it’s genuinely how we operate. Whether it’s stepping in to help another trainee who's busy or knowing I can count on colleagues when I need support myself, it’s made a huge difference in how much I’ve enjoyed my time here.

Outside of work, I enjoy trying new things – recently it’s pottery, which turned out to be much tougher, but also more rewarding, than I anticipated. When I can, I still love training for half-marathons, which keeps me disciplined and motivated.

My advice to new trainees is simple: stay open-minded, embrace challenges, and don’t hesitate to lean on those around you. This programme is meant to be challenging, but in a good way. With the right mindset, you’ll finish your traineeship feeling stronger, more confident, and ready for whatever comes next.