Am Law Publishes Q&A with Yujin McNamara on Her Path to Partnership at Akin Gump

Yujin McNamara, a partner in Akin Gump’s international trade practice, was featured in The American Lawyer’s “How I Made Partner” Q&A column. McNamara, who became a partner at the beginning of this year, discusses, among other things, the biggest surprise she experienced in becoming a partner and who had the greatest influence on her career. She also offers advice for those hoping to make partner someday.

McNamara said that upon becoming a partner, she was most surprised by the number of people who offered their assistance. “I think there is a fear that once you become partner you will be left to fend for yourself,” she said. “It is comforting to know that you don’t become an island when you become a partner. I feel just as much supported now as I felt as an associate, just in a different way where I’m more in control of the final decision.”

While she has had many great mentors over the years, McNamara credited her parents who are in Korea with helping her get to where she is today. “It was a difficult decision to move halfway around the world to pursue my own aspirations,” she said, noting that she would not have been able to do that without their “selfless support.” McNamara also praised her “ridiculously supportive husband who makes every day possible.”

For those seeking to make partner in the future, McNamara said there is no standard formula. “It’s a long-term commitment, so listen to your own voice to decide what works for you. What looks like a ‘successful’ partnership to one person might not work for another.” She added that ensuring she is doing something she genuinely enjoys, “has been an absolute must.”