Career Paths: Noah Brooks ’25L After graduation, Noah Brooks will work in the Charlotte office of Mayer Brown in their Banking and Finance group.

Noah Brooks ’25L

Noah Brooks ‘25L is from Martinsburg, West Virginia. He graduated from Hampden-Sydney College where he received a B.A. in government. Prior to law school, he worked for the Virginia House of Delegates for three years. His 1L summer, he interned with Mayer Brown and Equitable Holdings in Charlotte, NC. His 2L summer, he returned to Mayer Brown. At W&L Law, he is a member of BLSA and on Law Review. Noah lives in Lexington with his fiancée, Jayla, and German Shepherd, Nova. After graduation, he will work in the Charlotte office of Mayer Brown in their Banking and Finance group.

Did you know coming into law school that you wanted to work in this field?

When I came into law school, I had no idea what type of law I wanted to practice. My plan was to take many different types of classes to learn what I was interested in. I had no experience in finance. During my 1L summer, I learned how exciting and creative securitization and fund finance work can be.

What role did the size and location of the firm play in the search and decision process?

The size and location were key factors in my decision. I was looking for a place with a small-town vibe and where I could really get to know the attorneys in the firm.

Was there anything in your law school or summer job experience that confirmed this career choice?

During my summers at Mayer Brown, I gained exposure to the transactional side of law. Although I didn’t have experience in finance, I was drawn to the fast-paced, complex nature of the work. I enjoyed sitting in on calls with attorneys and taking part in drafting documents, learning how legal strategies align with business objectives.

The transactional courses I took in law school gave me a good foundation in corporate law. I knew by the end of my summer experience and after taking those courses that I enjoyed transactional work.

What classes do you think are helpful to prepare for this job?

Transactional courses. Namely, secured Transactions, Securities Regulations, Contracts, Business Associations, and Bankruptcy were great courses for learning about transactional work. Secured Transactions and Securities Regulations are pretty on point for banking and finance.

Can you describe the job search process?

During Thanksgiving Break of my 1L year, I spent a lot of time researching firms and practice areas. I made spreadsheets that included firm names, locations, practice areas, and alumni. Once I gathered that information, I networked with 3Ls and alumni, who offered insight into the interview process and detailed information about various practice areas. I worked to improve my application materials, bouncing ideas off of 3Ls about format and substance.

What are you most looking forward to about this job?

I’m most looking forward to continuing to grow within the Banking and Finance group and taking on more responsibility as I transition from a summer associate to a full-time role. After spending the past two summers with the team in Charlotte, I’m excited to build on those relationships and contribute more meaningfully to the group’s work. I’m also eager to explore Charlotte more—the trails, restaurants, breweries, and Hornets!