Emilie van de Walle de Ghelcke – Associate

When I finished my studies at the University, I wanted to work in an international atmosphere in the area of corporate law.

I joined Freshfields in Brussels for three reasons: the international nature of the work, the human size of the team and the ability to handle a wide range of files in corporate law.

I strongly believe it is of utmost importance for associates starting their career to deal with different issues and take responsibility for their work. This is the best way to learn how to become a fully qualified lawyer.

One of my first tasks in the Brussels office was to finalise a cross-border transaction that had been managed by an associate on maternity leave. I had to work with other offices of the network and to liaise directly with the counterpart in Belgium. This transaction enabled me to take my responsibilities from day one and to learn how the closing of a cross border transaction involving different offices was managed.

This is really something I like at Freshfields: each associate is responsible for her/his own file and can count on fellow colleagues for support.

I feel everyday I am learning something new and achieving a new objective.