Vacation Scheme Student Review

Extremely- an amazing opportunity to understand more about how Stephenson Harwood is so successful in a saturated legal market and what differentiates them from other mid tier city firms. The work sometimes was challenging but it only made you want to understand more and develop your skills, and when each day ended I was always proud of what I'd achieved.

The smaller number of students on the vacation scheme, compared to others, meant that we all received a much higher standard of support and focus from HR, trainees and qualified lawyers. The work assigned to me was genuinely needed by associates or partners, which meant that despite only being here for two weeks I felt fully integrated. I was constantly involved in all manner of tasks, and always felt I was contributing.

The initial support from HR was welcomed, and allowed us all to build confidence in ourselves early on. The buddies assigned to us in our practice groups meant that we always had a first point of contact in case we had an issue. The openness of the firm meant that if I did have an issue I had no qualms about discussing it with a more senior member of my team.

The skills I developed will stand me in good stead for the future, both in furthering my education and future work experience. I have learnt a variety of skills, from complex researching to client interaction to drafting charter-party agreements, and all are directly applicable for future endeavours. Meeting with the partners and associates to discuss career plans was also hugely beneficial- it is really interesting to understand how the drivers of the firm made their journey from trainee. The assessment centre was daunting, being my first one, but the skills tested were ones I had built up in the preceding week, and meant that I could focus on analysis of the issues in front of me.

Very well structured, I had a week in two previously chosen practice areas, along with talks by other practice groups to ensure I had exposure to all areas that Stephenson Harwood operates in. I'd have ideally liked to do a third seat, but one can dream! The structure of the assessment centre meant that after lunch there were no new assessments, which I appreciated.

Very welcoming and warm- everyone has their doors open and I never felt awkward walking in and asking someone a question. The talks were always engaging and speakers genuinely wanted to hear what we thought about something. Partners also wanted to know our opinion on an issue, which led to a very open and dynamic environment.

The HR team spent almost all of the two weeks investing in us, through ensuring we were supported, if we needed anything and it was so useful. Trainees took time out of their busy schedule to help and offer both professional and academic guidance which was also very much appreciated.

The day was modelled based on that of a trainee and I was engaged in work not dissimilar to what they were doing. This meant that I could really decide if this is what I'd want to do as a future career. The sheer breadth of tasks I undertook meant that I was never on the same topic for more than a day, despite being in the same practice area. I think that this demonstrates the huge scope working in an international law firm has.

The openness of all the departments is something only truly appreciated when working inside the firm. The culture is more relaxed than most, but maintains an ambitious outlook and there are always opportunities for professional development.

The day was modelled based on that of a trainee and I was engaged in work not dissimilar to what they were doing. This meant that I could really decide if this is what I'd want to do as a future career. The sheer breadth of tasks I undertook meant that I was never on the same topic for more than a day, despite being in the same practice area. I think that this demonstrates the huge scope working in an international law firm has.

Adequate remuneration given although at end of placement, from a cash flow perspective perhaps a little bit on the first day would have been beneficial.

Yes, there was a mix of formal networking, including presentations and talks, and more informal sessions with trainees. These events were spread out over two weeks which meant that you could really build rapport with trainees and associates at the firm. Additionally, the organisation of a sports event would have been great!

The events were a mix of formal networking opportunities and more casual evenings for drinks, which meant that you could practice professional networking skills and use the informal drinks to find out a bit more what the trainees did and their route into Stephenson Harwood. All of the events were designed to put the vacation scheme students at ease and for us to learn more about the culture of the firm.

Again, speaking to trainees was the best source of information. There are lots of opportunities outside of work and it is strongly encouraged that you partake in something. This can lead to increased personal and also business development; as often the firm will partner with a client - for example in sporting events. The firm also has a lot of pro-bono initiatives that anyone can get involved in.

Yes.