Summer Placement Student Review

I found my time at CMS very enjoyable and informative. The inclusive culture of the firm is striking and I was never made to feel like I was at the bottom of the pile.

From the outset I was given a great deal of responsibility which involved working for various lawyers and partners in my team, I was also able to share my trainees workload and make a real contribution to the work which was being completed.

Everyone at CMS who I had contact with could not have been more helpful. I was assured that I could never ask to many questions and always received help when required.

The placement allowed me to apply some of the knowledge that I have learned so far at university and obtain a true insight into the practicalities of working in a leading international law firm.

The overall programme was very well structured, the only way I feel it could be improved would be to over a longer placement. It is clear that there is a lot of high value work being undertaken by all departments and as my particular team were busy I was unable to experience the work being done in other areas of the firm. I feel having a longer placement and the choice of two departments may be beneficial to give a more rounded experience.

The two weeks are intense with the added pressures of the final interview and presentation as well as your existing workload. However, the six interns in my intake got on really well and I feel we took everything in our stride. There were a number of social events organised meaning we were able to hear from the trainees about their time so far at the firm.

I was able to dial into both trainee training and also training within my department. Both my trainee buddy and the fee earners were always willing to talk through the work they were completing and answer any questions I may have.

It is clear that CMS value each member of the firm, no matter where they fall on the hierarchy. I feel it is a firm which I could not only enhance but add to my existing skill set. The opportunities are endless, and despite the long hours involved, the hard work seems to reap success.

CMS is a very client centred firm and that is evident in everything they do. Everyone works hard but is willing to have a laugh when time permits.

I was exposed and able to undertake some of the high level work of CMS, cementing my desire to become a corporate lawyer.

There were regular drinks reception, lunches and dinners organised throughout the two weeks.

We were able to meet members of staff from across the firm and gain a true understanding of what it is like to work at CMS.

Yes, we were informed of some of the Corporate Social Responsibility programmes that are ongoing at the firm such as paired reading. In terms of sport, we were all invited along to play football and engaged in a lot of conversation regarding the CMS world cup.

Yes.