Hanna Hallett
Tell us a bit about yourself
I graduated from Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in December 2023 with a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and a Bachelor of Business (Management). Throughout my full-time studies I had several jobs, ranging from casual hospitality roles to full-time roles as an administration assistant, legal secretary, and a paralegal. From January 2023, I worked as a paralegal in the commercial team at Macpherson Kelley before I was accepted into their graduate program in March 2024. Over the course of my graduate year, I rotated in several teams including, Construction, Infrastructure and Energy, Litigation and Commercial.
What was the application process like?
The application process was thorough and engaging. I was initially required to submit an online application and answer some questions about myself and my background. Following this, a video interview was conducted where I answered questions about my understanding of the firm and personal experiences. Several applicants were then invited to attend an assessment centre in person to work alongside other candidates and showcase our skillset. The final stage was then an in-person interview with one of the principal lawyers at the firm. Although seemingly daunting, the process was rewarding and provided collaborative challenges and opportunity for self-reflection.
What were some of the key lessons you learned in your graduate year?
- Time Management – it is so important to prioritise your tasks and meet deadlines efficiently. Asking colleagues to advise you of the importance and urgency of tasks and communicating your workload with those around you is key to managing your time.
- Adaptability – working across different practice areas required me to quickly adjust to new processes, tasks, and challenges. I learnt to be attentive and open minded to ensure I could meet varied expectations and excel in a fast-paced environment.
- Clear communication – effective communication is key to keeping on top of your work. Communicating clearly with clients as well as colleagues assists in building trust and setting expectations in professional relationships.
What do you love most about your role at Macpherson Kelley?
What I love most about my role at Macpherson Kelley is the culture and incredible sense of camaraderie among the team. As a first-year lawyer, I’ve found that working alongside a close-knit group of juniors has been both inspiring and immensely supportive. We collaborate and share our insights freely, which enhances our individual growth but also strengthens our performance as a team and a firm. The teamwork and genuine care for each other is what makes the work environment engaging and rewarding.
What advice would you offer to final year students on navigating the graduate application process?
- Be authentic – whether you are answering written questions or speaking in interviews, authenticity is key to standing out.
- Research thoroughly – ensure you understand the firm’s culture, values and areas of practice and tailor your application to reflect how you and your goals align with the firm.
- Ask questions – the interview process is as much an opportunity for you to learn about the firm as it is for them to assess you, especially if you are applying for several firms. This will help you to make the best choice for yourself and the firms you are interviewing with.
In conclusion
The graduate program has continued to provide an opportunity to gain exposure to different practice areas. Rotating through different teams, has allowed me to work on diverse legal challenges and learn from others across multiple areas. Combined with the firm’s culture and commitment to teamwork, the Macpherson Kelley graduate program is a great start to building a well-rounded career.
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