WHAT IS THE JOURNEY THROUGH THE FIRM ?
Stefanos Molyndris Bangkok Trainee Secondment My Dispute Resolution seat in Bangkok was an amazing experience. I was able to get involved in a wide range of contentious work – primarily international arbitration disputes – and was given a large amount of responsibility early on. Within a couple of weeks I had been afforded the opportunity to assist in the preparation of witness statements, pleadings, advice memos and client briefing notes. I gained a real insight into the way disputes are conducted in a different cultural context and was challenged to adapt to different working and communication styles, working alongside both expat and Thai lawyers. A valuable aspect of the experience for me was the chance to learn a new language. This started before I left London, through a number of Thai lessons arranged by the firm. My lessons continued upon my arrival in Thailand through some less likely but
equally effective teachers – the office “tea-ladies”. I also made Thai friends outside of work, mainly by joining a football team, which gave me the opportunity to practice the language further. Bangkok is a stimulating and exciting city to live and work in – it has an excellent culinary scene, cool neighbourhoods to explore, and a brilliant nightlife. With Bangkok’s strategic location in the centre of South East Asia, the travel opportunities are also fantastic – aside from weekend trips within Thailand itself, I enjoyed visits to Hong Kong, Singapore and even ran a 10k at the ancient site of Angkor Wat in Cambodia. I was very sad to leave, but I won’t be gone for too long – I’ve since accepted an offer for a permanent role in Bangkok and will be returning upon qualification!
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