Vacation Scheme Review

It was an excellent placement. From meeting the vac schemers in each office in the first week to working in the departments, there was plenty of opportunity to network with the other offices and participate meaningfully in ongoing matters for the firm.

Sitting in corporate and employment, I very much felt a part of the team. As the office was extremely busy during the weeks I was sitting, coming in early and leaving a little later to get some of my work done was greatly appreciated. Thanks and appreciation came from supervisors for extra effort and diligence in work.

Training in the first week was extremely useful. It was both informative of the work the firm sees and skills necessary for the placement. Feedback was given throughout the placement, after the first seat, the second seat, and after the placement itself.

Having an understanding of what law means in practice is essential to deciding which subjects you choose in university. In DLA, I was keen to learn about everything in the departments I was working in. Work in the departments has definitely given some guidance about what seats I want to choose as a trainee, and the sort of work I want to do in the future.

From start to finish, the first week was structured really well. When we got to our respective offices, there was structure, but vac schemers (like most trainees) are expected to show a degree of flexibility in response to different matters arising within the firm.

Everyone, from the grad recruitment to the managing partner of the office were extremely approachable and friendly. Socials including a dinner with some of the leading partners were great opportunities to talk with DLA lawyers, trainees and other vac schemers alike.