First-seat trainee solicitor at Reed Smith, Camille Pellicano, reflects on her journey from Malta to London, the firm’s innovative SQE training programme, and how internships and bespoke electives set aspiring lawyers up for success
Talking to Camille Pellicano, you’d never guess she’s only a few months into her training contract at Reed Smith. The first-seat trainee solicitor brims with confidence as she describes her journey from Malta to the heart of London’s legal scene — a journey that began with curiosity and culminated in a spot on Reed Smith’s innovative training programme.
Camille’s story starts in Malta, where she completed her undergraduate law degree. But the small Mediterranean island wasn’t enough to satisfy her ambition. “I realised I wanted to pursue a career in law, specifically intellectual property law, and London was the obvious choice,” she explains. After enrolling in a Master of Laws at UCL, Camille quickly fell in love with the capital. “London has so many opportunities in law,” she says. “It’s such a vibrant place to live.”
Her first encounter with Reed Smith happened at a Legal Cheek event. “It was my first exposure to the major law firm, and it really came full circle,” she laughs. That initial event sparked her interest, leading her to apply — successfully — for a vacation scheme while still at UCL. She worked with the entertainment and media team during her week-long stint, immersing herself in copyright and trademark transactions. By July, Camille had secured a training contract with the firm, and by August, she was deep into preparations for the Solicitors Qualifying Exams (SQE).
The transition to the SQE could have been daunting, but Reed Smith’s innovative approach turned it into a smooth journey. Camille speaks highly of the firm’s two-part internship structure, which allows trainees to gain real-world experience before they even step through its doors. “My first placement was with a pro bono client, and the second was with a fee-paying client,” she recalls. “It was incredible to work directly with the firm’s clients and forge connections early on.”
The internships aren’t just about ticking boxes; they’re designed to integrate trainees into the firm and build their confidence. Camille spent two months with each client, balancing her placements with studying for the SQE. “It was structured so that we could go into the office, meet our cohort, and understand how the firm operates,” she explains. “This was crucial during a time when studying for the SQE could have been isolating. The structure allowed us to bond as a group, which made all the difference.”
Camille’s pro bono placement gave her the chance to contribute to meaningful work, attending events and building relationships with the client. Her fee-paying placement, by contrast, involved working with a medical tech company. “I acted as the contact between the firm and the client,” she says proudly. “I worked with partners from the US, liaised with the business development team in both London and the US, and was able provide the firm with updates on the client’s needs.” This exposure was invaluable. Camille learned to manage client relationships, communicate effectively, and collaborate with different teams. “It wasn’t just about the legal work,” she says. “I picked up soft skills like drafting emails, attending calls, and understanding how to navigate the firm’s systems. By the time my training contract started, I already felt like I belonged.”
If the internships weren’t enough to set Reed Smith’s approach to training apart, the bespoke electives certainly are. Developed in partnership with the College of Legal Practice, these modules delve into advanced disputes, corporate finance, and private acquisitions. “The SQE doesn’t always cover the specific knowledge you need,” says a member of the firm’s graduate recruitment team, “so we designed these electives to bridge the gap.”
Camille couldn’t agree more. “I’m in the banking and finance department for my first seat, and the corporate finance module was particularly helpful. It introduced me to facility agreements — documents I now work with daily. It was the perfect foundation.”
Each module combines theory with practice. Weekly meetings with supervisors provide trainees with feedback and guidance, and the programme culminates in a portfolio and a short online test. Camille highlights how this structure prepared her for the fast-paced world of legal practice. “I wasn’t just learning abstract concepts,” she says. “I was developing practical skills — tweaking clauses in agreements, understanding complex legal documents, and asking questions when I needed clarification.”
Beyond the formal training, Camille raves about Reed Smith’s supportive environment. “From the very beginning, I felt like I was part of something bigger,” she says. “Graduate recruitment involved us in networking events and pro bono initiatives, making sure we felt connected to the firm.” This focus on culture and community carries through into the training contract itself. “I’ve been in the banking and finance team for three months now, and the support is incredible,” Camille shares. “There’s constant training, and I’ve been encouraged to ask questions and develop at my own pace.”
Camille’s appreciation for the firm’s culture shines through as she recalls her first days. “By the time I started my training contract, I already knew my cohort well,” she says. “We’d studied together, worked together, and supported each other. That foundation made all the difference.”
As the interview winds down, Camille offers some pearls of wisdom for aspiring lawyers. Her first piece of advice? Build a support system. “The SQE is tough, but having a group of people going through it with you makes a huge difference. Lean on each other, share notes, and stay positive.” Her second tip is to do your research. “Don’t just apply to every firm out there,” she advises. “Really understand what each firm offers and see if it aligns with your goals. Attend events, talk to people, and get a feel for the culture.” Finally, Camille encourages future trainees to embrace the journey. “Moving to London, starting at Reed Smith, it’s all been a whirlwind, but it’s also been the most rewarding experience of my life,” she says. “If you’re passionate and prepared, there’s no limit to what you can achieve.”
Reed Smith’s graduate recruitment manager, Becca Schrod, will be speaking at next Tuesday’s virtual event: ‘Making SQE preparation work for you — with The College of Legal Practice and Reed Smith. Don’t miss this opportunity — APPLY NOW!
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