As part of our commitment to supporting emerging legal professionals, W & G Lawyers welcomed Beyza Karatas, a PLT student from Queensland University of Technology (QUT), for a four-week placement in June 2025.
Below is her personal reflection on the experience – shared with permission – offering insight into the learning journey of a future solicitor.
“I had a truly pleasant and insightful experience during my placement at W&G Lawyers. This was my first experience in a legal workplace, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn in such a welcoming and supportive environment. Melinda and Nancy are true experts in their field and fantastic mentors – generous with their time, clear in their guidance, and always approachable. I was naturally a bit nervous stepping into practice after six years of studies, unsure of how my academic knowledge would translate into real work. But thanks to their encouragement and support, I quickly felt more at ease and began to gain confidence in my ability to contribute and grow in a professional setting.
Over the course of the four weeks, I gained a wealth of practical knowledge that I simply could not have acquired through academic study alone. This experience has deepened my understanding of how a legal practice operates on a day-to-day basis, including all the behind-the-scenes work that lawyers undertake to support clients and manage matters effectively. Having spent six years in university focusing mostly on theory, it was eye-opening to experience the pace and dynamics of working in an office setting. This placement has helped bridge that gap and I now feel much more prepared and self-assured as I take the next steps in my legal career.
I am thankful for the guidance and mentorship I received from the W&G team, and I look forward to applying what I have learned in future opportunities. This placement has confirmed my enthusiasm for the legal profession and strengthened my commitment to ongoing learning and development. I have never been more excited about what the future has in store for me.
To future PLT students: remind yourself that you have come this far because you are more than capable and already have a solid foundation in the law. Do not doubt your skills – everyone starts somewhere, and this placement is your chance to put what you already know into practice. It is completely normal to face challenges along the way, but trust in your ability to adapt, learn, and grow. Stay focused, stay curious, and approach each task as an opportunity to build confidence and gain valuable, real-world experience. I wish all of you the best of luck – make the most of your time and the opportunities ahead!”
– Beyza Karatas
At W & G Lawyers, we are proud to support future legal professionals through practical placements.
If you are a PLT student or university coordinator interested in partnership opportunities, feel free to contact us.
📧 info@wglawyers.com.au | 📞 0433 071 350
Disclaimer: The content of this reflection is published with the author’s permission and represents the student’s personal views and experiences during their placement. It is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor does it necessarily reflect the views of W&G Lawyers. For legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances, please contact our office directly.