Vacation Scheme Student

Nina Goodyear

Human Science

Insight / Vacation Scheme (< 4 Weeks)

Taylor Wessing

What was the interview process like?

The interview process was non-intimidating. I felt as though recruitment made a conscious effort to put me at ease at the assessment centre, so as to get the best out of me. It comprised of a personal interview involving a case study scenario, and a business game requiring teamwork and debating.

What did you most enjoy about your role?

I’d definitely say the variety. In the 2 weeks my exposure ranged from: copyright litigation, a bankruptcy hearing at the Royal Courts of Justice, a client meeting at Deloitte, and an evening Pro Bono session. It was a glimpse of the fast-paced and diverse nature of life as a Taylor Wessing lawyer.

How much responsibility were you given?

The work assigned was real-life trainee tasks, on current deals and issues, not artificial vacation-scheme work as I had experienced elsewhere. I felt like I was making a significant contribution, having to multitask and effectively time-manage. I genuinely felt a valued and trusted member of the team, despite only being at the very start of my legal career.

What advice would you give to someone applying for your role?

The vacation scheme is action-packed so make sure you engage in every activity to the best of your abilities, and take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. Finally, it’s a cliché but don’t forget to be yourself. I think the best way to shine is by not being afraid to show a bit of your personality.

What has been your biggest challenge?

Coming from a non-law background required proactivity and an inquisitive outlook. It was sometimes challenging grappling with legal concepts in a totally unfamiliar academic field. It was a taster of learning on the job, but made all the more easy by a supportive culture where there appeared to be no such thing as a silly question.