Beginning my internship at The New Practice (TNP), I was really worried about not making a great first impression. Checking if my tie was in place, whether my shirt was rumpled and ensuring my shoelaces were properly knotted. I told myself that this anxiety was normal as it was my very first internship. However, all the nerves I felt subsided as I met my fellow intern who I instantly bonded with as we waited in the waiting room for our orientation. The navigation of the new environment became much easier as I was taken around and introduced to the prestigious staff of the firm who all welcomed me in the warmest way possible. From then, I knew my six weeks here will be memorable.
Getting this internship as a 300 level First Class student, I was determined to contribute to the firm in ways I could based on my academic knowledge but TNP, almost instantly, made me realize that there is so much more to learn beyond the textbooks. I was opportune to attend counsel, dispute resolution, and regulatory and compliance team meetings which exposed me to how a well-structured law firm operates internally. I learnt CAC filings, company secretarial documentation, court procedures, legal research and writing, contract drafting, and more during my time at TNP.
Another thing I learnt is the importance of public speaking skills. This was realized in the preparation of my presentation on “Artificial Intelligence in the Aviation Industry: Emerging Legal and Regulatory Issues”. I understood I spent more time in perfecting my slides than I did in cultivating my public speaking ability. This made me not to communicate my presentation the way I wanted to. For a while I had self-doubt, wondering whether I will make a great lawyer, confidently speak before the court, or properly articulate to clients. This feeling sat with me till I remembered the words of my supervisor – “it is you that will determine how far you will go in life”. That alone changed the trajectory of my thinking, realizing that it is neither my imperfections nor my shortcomings that will determine who I am, who I will be, or how far I will go. But rather, my zeal and determination to grow and be better. So now I am actively developing my public speaking skills and ready to take up opportunities to harness it.
Professional discipline was another vital thing that I was exposed to which influenced me to adopt the art of professionalism and resilience. As I witnessed every lawyer show great work ethic, studiousness, and diligence towards their work, I got to understand how invaluable professional discipline is in the legal profession. During my period at TNP and seeing how the lawyers are respectful, cordial, and patient with each other really set the bar high as to the work environment I wish to be in.
By asking questions and learning so much about legal practice, court procedure, and corporate governance from TNP lawyers made me admire how knowledgeable and intellectual they are. It pushed me towards alignment with my career goals in Aviation law, encouraging me to research and read more on the Aviation industry – a step closer to where I want to be in my career.
I am incredibly thankful to the management of TNP, CN, TI, DA, TJT, WA, LA, OI, CA, FK, and to my supervisor – CF, for making my internship experience impactful, engaging, and deeply insightful.
When I look back on my internship period at The New Practice, I realize I got something much more – a New Experience that has equipped me with the tools I need to thrive and grow in the legal profession. I am indeed truly grateful for it all.
By Ambros Nwoga