Spring Vacation Scheme Student Review

I really enjoyed my time on Baker & McKenzie's Spring Vacation Scheme. Having encountered the firm on a number of occasions prior to starting my scheme I knew I could expect a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. I was also struck by how willing everyone was to answer any question I had often despite their own busy schedules. As a result I was able to fully immerse myself in the work Baker & McKenzie is involved in and and give me feedback on the work and benefited from a great insight into the firm and its people.

I absolutely felt valued thought my two weeks with Baker & McKenzie. From my first day I was able to get involved in real and substantive client matters. In addition to being valued, I was also trusted with some important tasks ranging from drafting client advice to reviewing contractual terms. For each task I received a clear and comprehensive brief and was given an opportunity to get feedback after. At all levels, from trainee to partner, I was always thanked for my contribution and given an overview of how my task linked in with the wider matter.

On our first day we attended training sessions aimed at easing us into the vacation scheme. These included IT, telephone and library sessions which would prove particularly useful on a number of occasions. However, this support continued beyond the first day via our departmental supervisors and our trainee 'buddies'. No question was too small from our supervisors and our buddies could often point us in the right direction when starting a new task. It also was really nice to meet the wider cohort of trainees and Graduate Recruitment at a number of great socials throughout the scheme.

Many of the research skills I was able to develop on this vacation scheme will undoubtedly be beneficial as I progress through the GDL and beyond. However, certain skills can only be developed though working within a legal practice and I know these will help me greatly throughout my career.

At the beginning of the scheme we were provided with a detailed schedule and knew exactly where we needed to be and when for each event. We were always notified of any changes well ahead of time via email or telephone. Beyond the structure, the organisation of the scheme in general was great. There was a good mix of professional development opportunities and social events and, as a consequence, we were able to get a real feel for Baker & Mckenzie.

The atmosphere was great. People were friendly and always there to help. Importantly, the atmosphere extended beyond work. The trainees in particular were great and often invited us out for a drink at the end of the day. I found it really helpful to chat to people in a more relaxed setting as it helped me truly appreciate the unique and friendly culture that Baker & McKenzie as developed.

As vacation scheme students we benefited from development opportunities every day. This included formal sessions on presentation and business skills to aid us in our client pitch exercises. In particular, each department ran their own training sessions which we were invited to attend. At other times we were able to chat to trainees, associates and partners about their experiences in a more informal setting.

There were plenty of opportunities to get involved in some exciting legal work and I definitely learned a lot. It was also useful to observe trainees in their roles.

Having spent two weeks at the firm, we were able to gain a good insight into Baker & McKenzie's friendly culture. The mixture of formal and informal social events meant that we could talk to people at all levels within the firm and from a variety of different practice groups.

I was paid for the two week scheme and reimbursed my travel expenses for both the vacation scheme assessment centre and training contract interview.

Everyone was very welcoming. Just by being in the firm meant we could talk different lawyers about their careers. Particular events, such as the corporate networking lunch, gave us access to certain practice areas and the people that work within them. Also, Baker & McKenzie hosted a management committee lunch for the vacation scheme students. This was a great opportunity to ask questions and hear about the careers of the London office's senior employees.

There was a good variety of social events and networking opportunities. There was a welcome lunch, a curry evening, a ping pong night and a farewell lunch at the Shard. It was great that the firm's trainees got so involved in the social events as it allowed us a chance to meet them outside of work.

We benefited from talks on the firm's various CSR opportunities and also about Baker & McKenzie's diversity focus groups. It was great to see how popular they are and learn a bit about the positive impact that have had on the London office. Also, throughout the week, there were opportunities to get involved with some of the firm's sports teams.

Yes, absolutely. It was a great experience.