Ep 3: In the Thick of It: An Inside Look at Trainee Life with Emma O'Hara

Join us in this episode of That Very Bad Law Podcast as we delve into the world of trainee solicitors with our guest, Emma O'Hara. Emma, a trainee solicitor at a top 10 Irish law firm, shares her journey from academia to the legal profession, offering invaluable insights into the life of a trainee solicitor in Ireland. Emma provides a candid and informative look into what it takes to navigate the early stages of a legal career.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and rewards of life as a trainee solicitor, and discover practical tips for success in the legal industry. Whether you're considering a career in law or already on the path to qualification, this episode offers valuable insights that will resonate with aspiring solicitors at every stage of their journey.

About Emma:

Emma is a trainee solicitor in a top 10 Irish law firm, due to qualify in January 2025. She graduated with a First Class honours LL.B from Manchester Metropolitan University and then completed an LL.M from Trinity College Dublin, specialising in human rights-related subjects.

Outside of work, Emma vlogs on TikTok, showing her daily life and what it's like to be a trainee in Dublin.

About The Host:

Sophie McDermott completed her undergraduate degree in History and Politics at Newcastle University in 2018, after which the embarked on a somewhat diverse early career path. From serving as a Sabbatical Officer at Newcastle University, to joining a graduate program at a design engineering firm in London in 2019, Sophie's experiences provided her with a unique perspective and a passion for exploring new horizons.

Amid the uncertainties of the pandemic in 2020, Sophie found herself in Ireland, where she discovered her unexpected calling in law. Encouraged to pursue further studies, she enrolled in the Masters in Common Law program at UCD, graduating in 2023. It was during this transformative period that Sophie launched her TikTok channel "That Very Bad Law Student." Through engaging and light-hearted videos, she shared her journey of navigating the complexities of legal education, including conquering the FE1 exams, navigating internships and traineeships, and offering invaluable advice to fellow law students.

Artwork: Helena Egri
Music: Keith Fennell

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Find out more about the podcast at www.thatverybadlawstudent.com