woman at desk

 

Having a network is so important, many of us lawyers would not be where we are today without mentors and sponsors advising and advocating for us so get to know as many people as you can. 

Partner at HOMS Assist Rachel, shares her advice for students interested in a legal career on how to make the most of their co-op experience. 
 

Tell us a bit about yourself, what course did you study in UL, what has your career looked like to date?

My name is Rachel O'Shaughnessy, I studied Law and European Studies with French and Sociology and graduated in 2005 with a First Class Honours. As a partner at HOMS Assist I specialise in Medical Negligence. 

Tell us a bit about your co-op placement, what organisation did you work with and what year it took place?  

I did my co-op placement in 2003 at Dillon Eustace Solicitors in Dublin. The co-op team at UL set up the interview which was a big help!

What impact did your co-op placement have on your future career?  

I mostly worked in the corporate and banking departments at Dillon Eustace but one of the partners in the litigation department would bring me down to the Four Courts in Dublin and this ignited my desire to pursue a career in law. 

What piece of advice would you give to students going on co-op now?  

My advice to students going on co-op now is to see it as an opportunity to discovery if you like or dislike something, this can be as valuable. Having a network is so important - many of us lawyers would not be where we are today without mentors and sponsors advising and advocating for us so get to know as many people as you can.