Vacation Scheme Student Review

I really enjoyed the vacation scheme as it was well structured and it exposed me to the realities of life as a trainee and the practical application of law. I also got to experience the culture of the firm firsthand and it was truly as it is portrayed to be. Everyone at the firm was very kind and welcoming and it was a very supportive environment to learn and grow in.

I felt valued and supported throughout my time with Taylor Wessing. Many associates and lawyers would stop by to introduce themselves and talk to me despite the fact that I was only in each department for a week. In that short time, I felt like I was integrated and that my work was appreciated by various people who would take the time to give me constructive feedback on it.

In terms of the insight overall, we were supported throughout as there was a proper structure in place and there was always somewhere to be and something to do. Throughout all of this, there was a point of contact if we needed help with anything. In terms of work, I received as much support and help as I asked for and even if someone was busy, they would always get back to me later to provide assistance if I had gone to see them earlier.

I think I got a real insight into the work and standards expected of a trainee. I also learned to multi-task as the programme was planned such that there were group presentations and meetings apart from the work that had to be done. Learning to manage and prioritise competing demands is an absolute necessity in this profession so it was nice to be exposed to the reality of it.

It was very well structured as there was a proper plan which had been thought out beforehand and this was largely followed throughout the scheme. It made me feel valued and gave us the chance to actually contribute and assist in the work that was being done which was a great feeling.

It was really welcoming and friendly. People across the board - from the secretaries to the partners - were friendly and encouraging. Taylor Wessing stays true the values that it prizes itself on and it was lovely to see them being practiced across the firm. It was a great atmosphere to work and learn in.

The firm invested a good amount of time and effort into ensuring that we were exposed to various practice areas and understood the culture of the firm and what it stands for. We got to sit in two different departments but we were given the chance to hear presentations on all departments. In terms of work given, you could take advantage of multiple opportunities to seek out work, ask for feedback or seek general advice on any questions that you had.

I think it gave a good picture of life at the firm as I was able to witness the day to day work that was done by trainees, associates and partners. It was also interesting to see the varied work that was done by so many people and how it all comes together in the end to deliver a final product.

The values of the firm were emphasised a great deal to us and it was nice to see that they truly believed in "walking the talk". Indeed, everyone was expected to practice them and it helped give the firm a personality and actually distinguish it from other firms in the city. We were reminded of the values in many ways and I appreciated this as it fostered a great company culture.

I was already decided on the fact that I wanted to pursue a legal career so this was more a confirmation of that choice as opposed to something which led me to make it. I think the scheme does truly expose you to the realities of life as a lawyer and what is expected of you so that you can make an informed decision before going into it.

I was paid £275 a week and this was enough to cover my accommodation in London in my case! Lunch was also provided on most days in the form of sandwiches during insight sessions.

There were many socials throughout the two weeks which presented a great chance to meet and interact with many people. Everyone was welcoming and approachable and would often introduce themselves to us. Apart form this, you could also take the time to venture into other departments and ask anyone questions if you wanted to.

The socials were great - we had a dinner followed by drinks and then darts with drinks on two of the days. These were well organised and I felt taken care of throughout the time. Apart from this, there were also drinks at work and it was a great chance to meet people from all over the firm.

We were exposed to pro bono opportunities and a few of us even got the chance to attend legal clinics in our time there. We were mostly exposed to these by chatting to people and understanding what the firm does and what opportunities we had to get involved in.

Yes I would definitely recommend it to someone considering a career in law. It is a great way to test run the waters and help you make your decision / affirm your decision. It is also so important to understand the culture of the firm and see if you are the right fit for it and if this is where you can genuinely see yourself working.