Springboard Scheme Student Review

The Springboard scheme was an extremely enjoyable experience. During the week, I felt that I learnt a lot about the firm itself as well as what it would be to work at a commercial law firm. I believe that the week-long scheme was very different to the others I have undertaken. The emphasis was not on marketing the firm, but rather educating us. For example, the range of Practice Area Insights gave me insight into the intricacies of the different areas that are important at Clifford Chance.

I felt that I was extremely valued at Clifford Chance. The week was not just work shadowing; the majority of the week was tailor-made for us. The vast range of presentations were led by partners who were more than willing to answer any questions we had about the firm, however big or small. Furthermore, I believe there was a true open door policy at the firm. For example, during my work shadowing on the final day I spent an hour talking to a senior associate about my views on a deal and gaining valuable career advice.

The scheme was extremely supportive and we were given a lot of guidance. The range of networking lunches gave us the opportunity to ask future trainees, current trainees, associates and even partners any questions we had about the firm. They were very happy to be honest about life at the firm and I found this unique amongst City firms. Furthermore, the transparency of Clifford Chance was refreshing; there was a huge emphasis throughout the week on honesty, making sure we knew what we'd be letting ourselves in for in coming to work at Clifford Chance. I really liked this honest approach and believe it was extremely guiding and supportive.

The scheme was extremely informative. We were given as much information as we needed on all aspects of the firm, from its pro bono and diversity initiatives to its training systems and artificial intelligence. I believe I gained a true idea of what working in a City firm would be like and this has been extremely valuable in helping me confirm that this is the correct career path. Springboard also helped me to develop my commercial awareness, interview and case study skills, all of which would be extremely helpful in my degree studies and beyond.

It was extremely well structured. So much was packed into the five days that I spent at the firm. Moreover, four days were filled with thoughtful presentations that both gave a true insight into life as a commercial lawyer and focused on developing skills that would be necessary to become solicitors in the future. We were also taken to Paris to see the Paris Office which I believe was very valuable and allowed us to see the international aspect of Clifford Chance in which the firm takes so much pride.

The scheme was very inclusive; everyone was very diverse and this reflected the value Clifford Chance places on diversity.

I believe that Clifford Chance invested in us a lot. The presentations were extremely tailored to our needs; unlike all other firms I've been too, they were not generic but rather focused on contemporary legal issues, past deals the firm have worked on and interactive sessions. Furthermore, a personal development coach was brought in; this was extremely valuable to enable me to develop my interview and inter-personal skills in the long term.

It was very reflective of life at Clifford Chance. Graduate recruitment and other members of the firm were very transparent about life at the firm, honestly answering any questions that we had.

I believe it was very reflective of the company culture, which clearly values inclusivity, teamwork and collaboration.

I think that the content was very well-thought-out; I came away from the week with a real understanding on what a life as a lawyer would look like. It confirmed to me that this would be the correct career path for me.

We were given £350 that was intended to go towards accommodation and travel expenses.

Yes there were plenty of opportunities. We had networking breakfasts and lunches with different practice areas everyday and the wide variety of social events allowed us to speak to future trainees as well as members of the firm too,

They were extremely useful and enjoyable. There was a social event every evening and a trip to Paris on the Wednesday.

Yes, a great emphasis was placed on activities outside of work, from pro bono involvement to sports teams.

Yes! I have undertaken a wide range of insight schemes, including at other magic circle firms, and this was by far the most informative, useful and enjoyable!