After a year, July 2023 marks the end of Klara’s internship. We sat down with her as she reflected on her experiences, favourite memories, and lessons learned from the past year.
What were your expectations when you started your internship?
First of all, I was very curious about what it would be like to work in a Swiss law firm. I’m from Austria, studied there and had only gained experience in (large) Austrian law firms. In addition, I had already gained some experience in advising startups during my studies and wanted to see whether advising in the “real working world” would be the same or completely different.
And of course I was curious to see if LEXR was really so different from the “traditional” law firms I know. And I can say now: Yes, LEXR is totally different – be it the way we work to the relaxed dress code.
But basically I just wanted to go for it and see what happened…. 😊
Share a favourite memory that always brings a smile to your face.
Oh, definitely the company retreat in Berlin! That was really cool. Since many of us at LEXR work remotely and are spread out in different countries, it’s rare that we are all in the same place at the same time. But in Berlin we all got together, shared ideas, went out and just had a great time. I have fond memories of it!
We love fostering a learning environment – what new skills or knowledge have you gained during the last year?
Over the past year, I have gained in-depth legal knowledge in the areas of corporate law and startups. But I also learned a lot about responsibility: at LEXR, you are given the opportunity to take on responsibility at an early stage. As a result, I quickly learned how to manage free meetings independently and how to present myself as a young person in the best possible way.
I also got involved in product management for the first time: after a few months, I took over responsibility for our Shareholders Agreement for Founders, and have been responsible for its content and adjustments ever since, as well as chairing meetings on the topic. Basically, almost every Shareholders Agreement for Founders goes through me. I also have to think about how to effectively promote the product, for example through blog posts or webinars.
What is your favourite thing about your work and being part of the corporate team focusing on startup financing & VC?
One of my favourite things is working with euphoric and energetic founders every day. It creates a really positive atmosphere that I think is unique. I just find the atmosphere around startups very exhilarating. Startups are changing and growing so fast that every day feels like a new adventure. It’s just incredibly cool to be able to accompany startups on their journey and help them find solutions to legal challenges.
I also really appreciate my team! We work extremely well together and I am very grateful to have such cool people to work with.
What aspects of LEXR’s company culture stood out to you the most during your internship?
I was really impressed by the flat hierarchies, or rather the lack of hierarchies. At LEXR, anyone can make suggestions to change the status quo. If the idea is good, it will be implemented, whether you are the CEO or a junior who has been there for a week.
In addition, remote working is fully embraced. As long as you do your job, it doesn’t matter where you do it. I can visit my family in Austria or the Czech Republic for a few days, or take a city trip to London or Paris and work from there.
Lastly, what advice would you give to future interns who’ll join our team?
Be curious, ask questions if you are not sure, and take the initiative to make constructive comments. This will help you get the most out of your bar exam internship.