How would you describe the culture at DLA Piper?

DLA Piper has a healthy work culture where dedication and hard work go hand-in-hand with genuine enjoyment of the work and time spent with colleagues. Our colleagues are hard-working, intelligent and driven people who make the time to educate, support and mentor others. We regularly collaborate on big projects as a team that require commitment. Furthermore, we make it a priority to build meaningful connections within the team. For instance, our team sets aside time each week for a group coffee break, creating space to catch up and strengthen our bonds. All of this together creates a collaborative, supportive and engaging work environment.  

What pro bono or sustainability-related activities have you been involved in?

Regarding pro bono activities, I have been involved with our pro bono partner JINC from the Amsterdam office. JINC is an organization that specializes in helping children in middle or high school from challenging backgrounds with their career path. As a pro bono partner of JINC, the DLA Piper Amsterdam office organizes the following activities: (i) a one-day internship, (ii) career coaching for a few weeks, (iii) job interview training and (iv) a language course. My role is to encourage and inspire colleagues in the office to get involved by applying for one of the activities listed above and to further develop our partnership with JINC.

Do you have any advice for students aspiring to pursue a career in law?

My first advice would be to start off with an internship or working student programme. I was a working student at DLA Piper for 1.5 years before I became a Junior Associate. This position as a working student enabled me to get a grasp of what it would look like to work at an international law firm. It gives you a great insight into the kind of work you would do, you can get to know a lot of peers and colleagues and it will give you the opportunity to make a well-considered decision. Furthermore, I would advise a student to try to find someone you look up to. What really helped me during my period as a working student were my more senior colleagues who always took the time to reflect on my input and to show me where I can improve my skills.