Summer Legal Analyst Review

During the ten-week legal internship, I completed rotations with the Prime Brokerage, Investment Banking and Fixed Income Division. I developed my technical understanding of financial products and the role in which the legal team plays in facilitating these transactions. I completed several tasks including drafting communications to external parties and completing research tasks on highly technical regulations and legislation. I developed a foundation understanding of ISDA Master Agreements, Non- Disclosure Agreements and Indemnity letters. We also completed 3 assessments.

Developed the soft skills necessary to thrive in a legal setting, including my professional communication skills, my ability to analyse large quantities of information and my drafting capabilities. As there were a collection of legal interns, it was expected that all interns were able to work well in a team and be collaborative. This was apparent especially during the group presentation in front of all legal MDs and General Counsel. This opportunity enhanced my ability to speak in front of large audiences and answer questions quickly.

High levels of responsibility were given and we were treated as though we were trainees to the firm. As such, we were given the ability to work with counsel from across the globe and address key legal issues within the firm. As it was an in-house legal firm, consideration towards who the client was important. MS was the client and as such, it required communicating with a plethora of individuals within the hierarchy. Responsibility was reasonable.

Legal interns had a few consistent contacts we could approach for support. This included an ED from Legal and HR. This meant that we felt supported and could approach if we had any issues or required any further support. Managers were generally supportive and interested in our comments, values and what we could bring to the firm. Trainees within the firm, who had previously been through the internship, were on hand to provide continous advice.

The company has 5 core values and they are reinforced firm-wide. This includes a commitment to diversity and inclusion. As an intern, I was invited to meetings with the Legal D&I committee and was given the opportunity to speak about the firm's initiatives and steps they could take moving forward. Throughout the internship, interns were encouraged to 'give back' via virtual volunteering and there is a growing fundamental pro bono culture within the firm. Most people are friendly.

I thoroughly enjoyed the internship. Whilst also developing both legal and non-legal skills, I was given the opportunity to develop an understanding about the financial world and make friends. It provided me with a platform to a new career within the legal world and I was able to use these skills with my new job moving forward. I was able to get involved with D&I and giving back and I am happy to re-join the firm.

Yes

During all processes of the application, it is important to be yourself. The team at MS recognise that you do not have all the financial knowledge but they want someone who is willing to learn and contribute. Play on your strengths, accept your flaws and network. Networking is not all about making connections to advance your career, people appreciate when you get to know them. Get involved with firm wide initiatives and don't just stick to legal.