Nurany's success story: Securing a training contract at Gowling WLG

Nurany is a Law graduate from the University of Exeter. She secured training contract as a Future Trainee Solicitor at Gowling WLG in London, through Bright Network.  

First, please tell us a little bit about yourself?

“Growing up, I always enjoyed debating and thinking critically. Studying law gave me the flexibility to explore different paths while sharpening those skills.

Over time, I found myself drawn to roles where I could build relationships, negotiate and work as part of a team, all of which naturally led me towards commercial law. Law appealed to me as it pushed me to think rigorously, argue persuasively and approach problems from different angles. I knew that whatever career I pursued these skills would be invaluable.

In my first year at university, I explored different career paths through career fairs, insight events and even a consulting workshop. I see the solicitor’s role as a natural fit for me because it allows me to combine problem-solving and negotiation with collaboration and relationship-building while contributing to significant commercial outcomes.”

What motivated you to apply for your role?

“What initially drew me to Gowling WLG was its excellent training contract programme, which gives trainees the opportunity to take real responsibility and contribute meaningfully to matters across a variety of practice areas.

I am particularly interested in intellectual property and real estate, so it was important to me that the firm had strong reputations in these fields. Gowling’s expertise in both alongside many others made it a clear fit.

During my vacation scheme, I experienced first-hand the firm’s collaborative and inclusive culture. Everyone I met was genuinely supportive and approachable. I left the scheme confident that I would thrive both professionally and personally at Gowling.

What was the application process like?

“The application process for Gowling was enjoyable. Although I usually find competency-based interviews daunting, both of my interviews felt more like conversations, which immediately put me at ease.

What stood out most was how the partner approached commercial awareness questions as an engaging discussion. This made the experience both comfortable and intellectually stimulating.”

How did you prepare for the interview?

“I prepared by reflecting on common interview questions and identifying the experiences I wanted to highlight. I didn’t script or memorise responses as I wanted to remain authentic, but taking the time to think through my answers beforehand gave me clarity and confidence.

I also prepared by signing up to the firm’s insight mailing list, which helped me stay informed about its activities. This proved particularly useful in tailoring my application as I was able to connect the firm’s clients and types of work with my own interests.

To stay commercially aware, I regularly read the Financial Times and listened to a variety of podcasts, which helped me stay up to date on wider market trends and developments.”

How did Bright Network help you secure your role?

“I used the Bright Network website to find opportunities and attended Bright Network events like Diversity in Law and a Commercial Awareness workshop.”

What are you most proud of about your journey?

“Anyone applying for vacation schemes or training contracts knows how gruelling the process can be and early rejections can be quite demotivating.

What kept me going was attending online webinars and insight events, which gave me a clearer sense of what firms were looking for. I felt so happy when I was offered a training contract with Gowling WLG not only for the achievement but also because I knew the firm was a strong fit for me.

What I value most though is how the process deepened my appreciation for the profession. Through research for applications, I discovered a genuine fascination with commercial law and a clearer sense of the type of firm that would suit me. The early rejections were invaluable as they pushed me to reflect and find motivation rooted in my own ambitions.”

What have you learnt from going through the process?

“My biggest lesson from this experience has been to trust in my own abilities. It can be difficult to sit among talented peers without comparing yourself but it’s important to remember that you also bring unique experiences that will make you a good lawyer.

What surprised me most was how much rejection can teach you if you are open to learning from it.”

What are your tips for people looking to follow in your footsteps?

“My advice to anyone is to familiarise yourself with the process and before applying ask yourself why the firm is right for you.

I recommend attending insight events as they provide a real understanding of the work a firm does. I found Bright Network workshops and webinars helpful for developing commercial awareness.

One thing I would have done differently during my vacation scheme is to be more confident in asking for help and advice as everyone at Gowling is approachable and willing to share their experiences.

Finally, it’s also important to keep an eye out for additional opportunities offered by firms; for example, Gowling runs an essay competition that I would have taken part in had I known about it earlier.”

Tell us about the future. What’s next?

“I’ve recently completed the Legal Practice Course and will be starting my training contract in 2026.

Before then, I’m going travelling with the hope of continuing to learn and develop by gaining new skills and perspectives from the different places I visit.”