Tell us a bit about yourself and your study background.

I graduated from a double degree in Bachelors of Arts – Psychology with the degree of Bachelor of Laws at Macquarie University. I have been studying since 2018, with a two year break in between to pursue my personal goal of living in the UK. I was lucky enough to do a semester abroad at the University of Exeter before returning to full time study in Sydney.

Where were you at with your career at the point you first connected with Yegal?

I connected with Yegal at the end of my degree when I was looking for full-time work as a paralegal while I completed my Practical Legal Training (PLT). I was looking for an opportunity that would allow me to gain practical experience in a professional legal environment while continuing to work towards my admission as a solicitor.

What was the process once you applied?

I first applied through the Yegal website and received an email about the position at BaptistCare. I thought it sounded like an excellent fit for me, particularly because it offered five days of full-time work for a few months. The turnaround between applying and getting a position at BaptistCare was very quick. I had an interview with Michael over Zoom to make sure I was the right fit for the role, then had an interview with BaptistCare and shortly afterwards I was offered the position.

Since you got matched to a job, where have you been working and in what capacity?

Since I was matched with the role at BaptistCare, I have been working full-time as a paralegal. During my time there, I have worked across both the legal and governance teams, taking on different matters as needed. The role has required a very diverse understanding of the law, which has been great for keeping me on my toes!

How would you describe the culture at Baptist Care? Who have you been reporting to and how have they helped your development?

BaptistCare has built a very welcoming and friendly culture. It has been particularly interesting to be a part of the organisation’s growth, as I joined in July and a national merger occurred only a few months later in March. This has meant that I have seen a great deal of change during my time at BaptistCare, as well as the resilience and adaptability of my colleagues, and most significantly, my managers.

As a paralegal, I have reported to Kirstin Fischer, General Counsel, and Catherine Officer, Company Secretary. Kirstin has given me the opportunity to dive headfirst into a very wide range of legal matters and has always encouraged me to have a crack at tackling matters myself before stepping in to help refine and strengthen my work. This has given me a great deal of confidence in my own legal skills and allowed me to learn through practical experience. Catherine has helped me develop my understanding of the inner workings of corporate governance and the role that governance plays within a large organisation. Working alongside both Kirstin and Catherine has given me exposure to different areas of the legal profession and has been invaluable in developing my confidence, independence and practical understanding of the law.

What are your career objectives for the next 12-24 months?

I would like to continue developing my skills in an in-house legal environment and take on increasing levels of responsibility as I progress in my career. Ultimately, I want to establish myself as a well-rounded solicitor with strong practical legal skills and a good understanding of the commercial and organisational context in which legal teams operate.

What advice would you give to any students thinking of applying to Yegal Paralegal?

You have no reason not to! You can “window shop” the positions until you find one that really appeals to you, as I did. I would encourage students to apply even if they don’t think they have extensive experience yet. Be open to opportunities, be willing to learn, and make the most of the experience once you get your foot in the door.

What started as a three-month contract for me ultimately turned into a full-time position as a lawyer. You never know until you try!

If you are looking to hire a best in class paralegal just like Curtis, it’s free to place your first job request RIGHT HERE.

If you are a law student or graduate seeking work opportunities, CLICK HERE to apply to become a Yegal Paralegal.