UNVEILING THE INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE AT G ELIAS
It's funny how my enthusiasm for work quickly earned me the nickname "Steve — the guy who loves work."
In the realm of legal internships, some experiences stand out as transformative journeys that shape young minds into future legal luminaries. Today, we delve into the intriguing tale of Stephen Agada's internship at G Elias, a renowned Nigerian business law firm with nearly three decades of expertise.
This narrative unfolds a captivating exploration of opportunities, challenges, and invaluable lessons. Join us as we uncover the dynamics of this internship, shedding light on the unique approach G Elias employs to nurture aspiring legal professionals and carve a path towards excellence.
Hello, Stephen. Could you please tell us a little bit about yourself?
My name is Stephen Agada, an undergraduate law student at Ahmadu Bello University. I have core interests in technology law, specifically in areas such as data protection, web3 innovations, IP, fintech, and regulatory compliance. In addition to my studies, I hold the position of campus director for The Legal Issues Int'l at my university.
Fueled by a deep passion for excellence, my mantra, "I have no limitations," underscores my commitment to exceeding boundaries and striving for exceptional achievements.
Can you give us a deeper insight into what G Elias does and the department or role you were assigned?
Certainly. G Elias, as part of the esteemed Multilaw alliance, distinguishes itself as a prominent Nigerian business law firm, boasting nearly three decades of specialised experience. The firm's focus encompasses pivotal areas such as mergers, acquisitions, compliance, litigation, arbitration, and tax, catering to diverse industries including banking, fintech, oil and gas, healthcare, and technology.
Regarding my role at G Elias, the firm takes a unique approach. Rather than interns rotating through different departments, as may be the case at other law firms, the firm organises structured knowledge-sharing sessions. In these sessions, each day, at least two lawyers from each department generously share insights, experiences, and essential information. This approach allows interns to not only develop a passion for specific fields but also strengthen existing interests. Following these sessions, I was strategically assigned to either a team or given an individual task based on my newfound knowledge.
This approach ensures a comprehensive understanding of the firm's work while providing interns with practical experiences aligned with their interests and skills.
There’s always stiff competition when it comes to securing internship positions. What did you do to stand out when applying?
In my case, securing an internship at G Elias presented a unique trajectory. It stemmed from a recognition I received as a prize winner of a scholarship sponsored by WIPO. I was subsequently recommended for an internship placement at G Elias by WIPO. Despite this commendation, I diligently submitted my CV for thorough review. This dual approach, combining an accolade from WIPO with a proactive submission of my credentials, contributed to my successful placement at G Elias.
How did you feel on your first day?
Sincerely, on my first day at G Elias, I was really excited. The prospect of being part of a top-tier law firm fueled my eagerness to absorb knowledge and gain invaluable experience. Brimming with energy, I proactively sought out tasks from day one. It's funny how my enthusiasm for work quickly earned me the nickname "Steve — the guy who loves work" among my co-interns 😄.
However, this initial excitement set the tone for a dynamic and engaging internship experience.
Could you describe a typical day in the life of an intern at the firm? How often were you expected to be physically present at the office?
A typical day as an intern at G Elias kicks off at 8:00 AM. Our days are well-structured, which usually begin with knowledge-sharing sessions from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and another session from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Following a one-hour break, we dive into tasks assigned to us by lawyers from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Additional knowledge-sharing sessions may extend the day until 5:00 PM, with some flexibility to stay till 6:00 PM for tasks or extended sessions.
This routine applies from Monday through Thursday. Fridays are a bit different as the day wraps up by 4:00 PM, including a briefing session in the conference room with lawyers and partners, summarising the week's departmental activities alongside presentations.
Yes, physical presence at the office is expected every weekday, fostering a collaborative and immersive learning environment. The engagement is so fulfilling that I would willingly extend my presence, even on Saturdays, if permitted. 😄
Were you assigned real-life tasks or only student-related work?
Certainly, the experience at G Elias offered me a blend of student-related work and real-life tasks. I vividly remember working with a team of co-interns tasked with drafting a legal opinion for an actual case. This hands-on involvement in real-life scenarios was a common occurrence during my internship, providing valuable insights and learning opportunities.
Did you have the opportunity to build connections and interact with the members of staff?
Absolutely! I had the opportunity to build meaningful connections during my internship at G Elias. The firm's lawyers and partners are exceptionally welcoming and actively encourage interns to engage with them. Through these interactions, I not only networked with associates and partners but also gained valuable insights and mentorship, contributing to a rich and collaborative professional experience.
What inspiring or memorable moments can you share from your internship?
There are several memorable, inspiring moments from my internship, but I'll highlight two that left a lasting impact.
On my first day, I had a light-hearted exchange with the deputy managing partner, unaware of his position. We playfully debated on the merits of Bayero University, Kano (BUK), where he studied, versus Ahmadu Bello University. Despite the difference, it was a memorable and inspiring interaction. This moment not only helped me form a connection but also showcased the approachability of senior figures at the firm.
Another standout memory was a session with the founding partner, Gbolahon Elias, SAN. His depth of knowledge across various legal areas was awe-inspiring. During the session, he effortlessly discussed historical, current, and future aspects of whatever aspect of law we brought up. This encounter with his profound expertise left a lasting impression and added to the overall inspiration of my internship.
There are a lot more. In fact, every moment spent at the firm was a memorable one for me, actually.
What would you consider your favourite part of the internship program?
My favourite aspect of the internship program was the invaluable knowledge-sharing sessions with both the lawyers and partners. The commitment to ensuring interns maximise their learning experience is palpable throughout the firm. The intentional and comprehensive approach to professional development at G Elias truly made these sessions a standout and enriching part of the internship.
Did you receive any feedback or evaluations?
Certainly, I received both commendations and constructive feedback during my internship. The mix of positive reinforcement and areas for improvement created a well-rounded and uniquely valuable experience for me. I took each piece of feedback seriously, using it as a guide for continuous learning and professional development.
Was there any remuneration?
Certainly, the internship program at G Elias included several forms of remuneration. We received a stipend, which significantly assisted with transportation costs. Additionally, we were granted access to the office WiFi, eliminating any personal expenses related to data usage. The firm also ensured our well-being by hosting a lunch session sponsored by a partner and a subsequent dinner with another partner on the last day, held at exceptional venues. Moreover, there were opportunities to win cash prizes by engaging in challenging questions posed by some of the lawyers. This comprehensive support and recognition added to the overall positive experience of the internship.
What was your biggest lesson or takeaway?
My most significant takeaway from this internship is the realisation that I can achieve remarkable success and financial prosperity as a lawyer. There's a prevalent misconception, especially in our country, that lawyers are financially handicapped. I've encountered such beliefs, even from close quarters like my own sister, who tried to discourage me. However, my experience at G Elias shattered these misconceptions, revealing the myriad opportunities for financial success in the legal profession. This insight has fueled my determination to excel and be the best in my field, and I am fully committed to the path ahead.
What part of the internship would you have done differently?
Honestly, I don't think I would have done anything differently during the internship, as I believe I maximised the opportunity to its fullest. However, upon reflection, one aspect I might have enhanced is my engagement by asking more questions. Additionally, I could have aimed to interact and network with every member of the firm, although I understand the practical challenges of such an extensive approach. Despite these considerations, I am confident that I performed well in meeting the expectations of the internship.
For students considering similar opportunities, what advice or insights can you offer?
Securing an internship placement at a top-tier law firm like this is a competitive endeavour that requires proactive efforts. Demonstrating your worth through a well-crafted CV, professional demeanour, and early application is crucial. Begin the application process as soon as possible, considering the high volume of submissions these firms receive. Timeliness could give you an edge.
Moreover, don't underestimate the power of networking. Attend events, engage with legal professionals, and build connections that could open doors for you. You never can tell where a recommendation could come from. Additionally, stay persistent and follow up on your applications. Sometimes, a well-timed follow-up can make a difference.
Lastly, never underestimate the importance of prayer. Include God in your journey and seek guidance throughout the application process. A combination of all of these can significantly enhance your chances of securing similar opportunities.
Can we connect with you on social media?
Certainly! Feel free to connect with me on the following social media platforms:
-LinkedIn: @Stephen Agada
- Twitter: @Stevegada
- Medium: @Stephen Agada
I look forward to connecting with you!
Do you have any existing or upcoming projects you’d like to promote?
While I don't have specific projects to promote at the moment, I am actively delving into the web3 realm, exploring its innovations, and seeking to position myself for the diverse opportunities it offers. I've recently started sharing my learnings on my Medium account. Feel free to follow me there for regular updates — Stephen Agada on Medium. Stay tuned for insights and discoveries!
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