Vacation Schemer Review

This was an excellent insight into CC as we were given a mixture a task that would be expected of a incoming trainee, as well as plenty of opportunities to network with CC people, from first year trainees to partners. The hours were long, as would be expected, but it was a very immersive and enjoyable experience.

Everyone at the firm made a remarkable effort to demonstrate that we were valued, from personalised CC merchandise, to drinks events and breakfasts, even a residential weekend to a corporate retreat. The graduate team were also always eager to hear feedback as to how they could improve our experience even more.

'Trainee buddies' were assigned to us for each of the two practice areas we sat in, meaning we always had a more informal person to talk to for guidance, as well as having a supervisor. The graduate team were extremely welcoming and attentive so most people felt comfortable turning to them for any help they needed outside these practice areas.

As I do not study law, the relevance of the scheme to my university degree was minimal. However, the talks on corporate law, finance and even nutrition were very interesting and helpful on a personal level, and it seems CC really emphasises personal and continuous improvement of its employees.

We were given an outline for our two weeks, telling us where to be and the timings of our days in advance.

There was much less of a competitive atmosphere between vac schemers than perhaps would be expected, which created a more fun and supportive environment. The residential weekend also helped us to connect and network in a less formal setting, which certainly added to the positive atmosphere.

Despite the educational talks and very friendly supervisors, I felt that in the practice areas more time could be spent integrating the vac schemers into the work being done. However, this is perhaps to be expected with only one week in each area and in very busy departments.

The exposure to trainees and recently qualified lawyers helped me understand in detail the demands and experiences of working at CC, although this was much more about taking to others than the work and experiences given in the practice areas.

The friendly but fast paced and competitive atmosphere of CC was apparent in talking to largely other trainees.

The scheme gave quite clear insight into what being a corporate lawyer trainee would be like

The payment is £800.

There were planting of opportunities to network with trainees from every practice area in CC, and opportunities to get to know trainees socially. The partner dinner allowed networking with higher management also.

The social events were amazing, and very well organised, allowing for great bonding between vac schemers and networking opportunities.

Yes, particularly pro bono work, sports opportunities, and the 'art fund', which allows museum entry for CC employees, although the latter were not particularly advertised by the scheme.

Yes definitely, it was both useful and enjoyable.