Graduate Trainee Review

I really enjoyed it because the firm seemed interested in teaching us a variety of different tools and genuinely preparing us for a career as a solicitor. I enjoyed the challenges of the experience and always felt that there was help on hand, and as a result I felt like I got a lot out of the experience.

I felt valued far above what I expected. I was surprised that solicitors with busy schedules and large workloads were always willing to answer any questions I had. I was given great feedback on the work I did do and I felt like I was part of the team in both departments in which I worked.

We were given lots of support from the HR department, who always asked us how things were going, making me feel more relaxed. My supervisors in both departments were very conscientious, checking that everything was going well and answering any questions that I had. This made me feel like it was a place where I would fit in and be able to learn a lot.

The experience was very helpful when seeking employment before completing the second part of my legal studies: I found I had a lot more to discuss when being interviewed, and was able to engage more effectively with interviewers because I had gained a broader understanding of the way in which legal work relates to business.

The scheme was very well structured. We were given detailed timetables for the two-week duration of the scheme, which meant that when we started, we already knew what the key deadlines were and what commitments we had. I think the fact it was well structured meant that I felt acclimatised very quickly.

I think I had a realistic insight into the work, both the more exciting parts and the parts which had to be done well. I really appreciated the balance, as I think it helped me understand what the day to day work of a solicitor at Hogan Lovells would be like. I think this is as important as having fun, because it is no use committing to a job with an unrealistic expectation of the day-to-day work.

I think the firm invested a lot in us vacation scheme students, and, to be honest, far more than I thought they would. I think that this was a very effective strategy: if we succeeded in taking on everything that we had learnt, and we were proactive, then we would enjoy ourselves and feel valued.

I attended departmental meetings and worked with different team members in both departments during the vacation scheme. As a result I saw how colleagues interacted with one another on a daily basis. I was particularly impressed by the professional and conscientious people I met, but also the fact that they were a pleasure to spent time with.

Yes, we attended drinks with current trainees, who could give us honest insight into their experiences at the firm. We also attended lunches with partners and this was a good opportunity to ask them about their work, how they had selected their area of expertise and what they enjoyed most about client work.

I would definitely recommend this vacation scheme to friends, and have felt quite evangelical about my experience. Speaking to people who have attended vacation schemes at other firms, it is clear that the level of investment and attention that vacation scheme students at Hogan Lovells receive is far higher than the average.