vac schemer Review

The experience was a brilliant insight into being a commercial solicitor. I was in a busy department, in full flow, which was fantastic to observe, but importantly was given real work that would actually be seen by clients, and was made to feel properly involved within the team. Alongside normal work the HR department put on some fantastic socials, such as scavenger hunts within the city of London, Karaoke nights, and partner dinners. This gave everyone a great opportunity to let their hair down, and get to know one another. Although I spent my whole time within one department, throughout the scheme we were given "breakfast briefings" where a member of each department would discuss the sort of work they do, and the realities of their role. It gave a great snapshot as to what a practising as a Nabarro solicitor is like.

From Partner level down to the trainees, from my first day I was made to feel welcome, People took an interest in my background and my career stage, and I definitely got the sense that while there is always a certain degree of politeness and friendliness that naturally comes with placements like these, people were genuine, and took time out of their schedules to pop round, engage in discussion, and ask if I needed help. At the end of the scheme my supervisor, along with my buddy and one of the department paralegals took me out to a nearby Turkish restaurant as a farewell one lunch time, which was a great touch, especially as I knew how busy they were.

Before every task I was given, my supervisor really took the time to explain why a piece of work needed to be done, the background involving the client, and what I specifically needed to do to ensure the work would be done to a good standard. This meant that although the work was challenging, I felt more than equipped to take on tasks given to me. Further to this, my supervisor and buddy had an open door policy which meant that if there was something I didn't quite understand, they would be at hand to help. I think as both of them had been on the scheme themselves years back, they understood how they could really be of help!

I definitely think one thing I developed was the ability and skill to time manage and prioritise tasks that I had. Along with departmental work, we had the Nabarro project to complete, an assessed group exercise undertaken with vac schemers. As well as that we had our socials too, which meant that each day there were tight time frames you were working to, very much like a real lawyer. I think going forward this will definitely help me in the workplace, as well as helping my efficiency.

Before we joined we were given a timetable, detailing inductions, group meets, as well as other exercises. This all ran on schedule, and was well thought through by HR.

The general atmosphere was honestly fantastic. This was mainly down to the HR department, who from the first day set the tone for the next couple of weeks, and who were friendly, open, and fun. A genuine reflection of the firm as a whole, as I found out!

After each piece of work, my supervisor gave detailed feedback, very much like an actual trainee. In more general terms, the HR team ensured we were given a lot of information regarding life as a solicitor, and the mere fact that you are surrounded by lawyers for 2-3 weeks means you can take it upon yourself to ask questions and gain wisdom that will feed into your development, a genuinely helpful opportunity.

There really isn't a better substitute for being surrounded by lawyers each day, seeing them work under pressure, seeing them deliver results, and what it takes on a personal and team level to see that happen. A great insight into what its like full time.

It helped me a great amount. Its easy perhaps on an assessment day for people to put on a front, but when you see a group of people in their everyday working environment, you get a realistic picture of what its actually like to work there, and how people treat each other.

Very important. Im more motivated than ever to pursue this career path.

Yes, Apart from the whole scheme which in itself is a massive networking opportunity, we had a special networking evening where interns from another nationally renowned company were invited along, and where we could practice networking skills. A talk was also given by a partner, who grew his reputation on the back of good face to face business development. All in all, a great insight.

Yes. I was invited out numerous times by employees, and on a personal level I was very fortunate along with some other vac scheme students to head down to Liverpool to take part in the Corporate Games, There are definitely loads of opportunities to to do sport, have a drink, or just generally relax outside of work with colleagues.

Yes. I had high expectations before coming onto the scheme, due to the amount of awards the placement had won, but even then those expectations were surpassed when I took part.