2022 First Year Guide A5

C o r r s w e l c o m e
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N A N C Y Z H A O
C U R T I N A L U M N I A N D 2 0 2 1 G R A D U A T E
C O R R S C H A M B E R S W E S T G A R T H
Welcome to the beginning of your career in law – a journey which
can be both rewarding and challenging at the same time. As a
Curtin alumni who was in your position only a few years ago, I can
confirm that a degree (and ongoing career) in the legal industry is
an opportunity to achieve valuable personal and professional
growth.
I can attest to the advantage of practical work experience in
partnership with academic studies, and I have benefited from
clerkship and graduate programs at Corrs Chambers Westgarth
(Corrs). As Australia’s leading independent law firm, Corrs provides
exceptional legal services across the full spectrum of matters,
including major transactions, projects and significant disputes,
offering strategic advice on our clients’ most challenging issues.
I am currently a member of the firm’s 2021 graduate cohort,
undertaking my second rotation in the projects (disputes) practice
group. So far I have benefited from their high-quality professional
development program, which is giving me the skills and experience
needed to succeed in a career in commercial law. Additionally, I am
enjoying the comradery amongst my fellow grads, the inclusive firm
culture and the opportunity to shape my experience with options
such as pro bono legal work.
The program focuses on development through practical day-to-day
work experience and dedicated support, which has given me the
opportunity to learn first-hand through undertaking substantive
work.
Although still in the early stages of my career, I have already had
opportunities to support the firm as it acts at the forefront of some
of the most high-profile public international law matters in our
region, assisting governments and corporations with the resolution
of highly complex cross-border disputes.
At Corrs, I have experienced a culture built on excellence,
collaboration, commitment and respect. It makes me proud to work
within a firm, and an industry, where so many people share a
commitment to outstanding quality and service. There is a real
commitment to the professional growth and development of young
lawyers, and I have received structured support from my first day. In
(what feels like only a short time!) I have built a professional
support network which includes partners, mentors, my fellow
graduates and a dedicated People and Performance contact – who
have helped support the start of my career in law.
If you are looking for a start where you can learn quickly through
on-the-job training, receive ongoing feedback and benefit from
mentoring from our leading experts – maybe Corrs is the right firm
for you also! And finally, best wishes as you commence your studies
and embark on this exciting journey into the world of law!

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