Aasha Kimpton

ROUTE TO LAW

Whilst studying PPE at the University of York, I took part in the firm’s Winter Workshop aimed at finalists and graduates. I did not have any prior legal experience before the workshop, but I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about corporate law and life at Slaughter and May. All of the partners, associates and trainees I met during the workshop were friendly and encouraging and made for an overall really positive and enjoyable experience.

WHY SLAUGHTER AND MAY?

Aside from the high-quality standard of work and training at the firm, I joined Slaughter and May due to the collaborative atmosphere and the people. I believe that the firm fosters an encouraging working environment without the competitive nature that can be common in other City law firms.

TRAINING CONTRACT SO FAR

 I am currently sat in my first seat, in the Financing department and have really enjoyed the work so far. The most exciting matter I have worked to date was an acquisition financing for a private equity firm. I really enjoyed marking up the facility agreement and helping my supervisor and the partner negotiate with the lenders to ensure our client received the best possible debt package given the strict time constraints.

I have also enjoyed the breadth of work that I have been able to get involved with. I have worked on project finance, acquisition finance, bond issuances and derivates transactions. The ability to get involved in so many different aspects of financing has really shaped my experience in the seat and is very helpful when it comes to deciding where I want to qualify at the end of my training contract.

NETWORKS

I am involved in the DIVERSE network and have attended events representing the firm. The event I have enjoyed most so far was the Black Women in Law panel as part of the Women in the City Afro-Caribbean Network (WCAN). This panel was focused on helping university students gain an insight into law and answering any questions they had about applications and life as a lawyer.

The firm is very keen for trainees to get involved in networks and encourages everyone to take part in events. I have also recently joined the women’s football team and have really enjoyed taking part in a new sport and meeting new people.