Spring Vacation Scheme Review

The Vacation Scheme was a fantastic insight into life not only at a global law firm, but also more specifically into the culture of the firm. This was achieved through a mixture of work shadowing and departmental tasks, networking opportunities, and personal development sessions that took place throughout the scheme.

I felt extremely valued throughout my time at the firm. From the tasks that were set, through to the social events the firm had organised for us - everyone at different levels across the firm took the time to get to know us which made the experience all the better.

The guidance and support provided by the firm throughout the scheme was top-tier. At the start of the scheme, we had an induction detailing what to expect throughout the scheme that clearly outlined the schedule of what was going to be taking place over the two weeks as well as being allocated a 'trainee buddy' for each department we sat in.

The Vacation Scheme was a fantastic opportunity to really enhance your soft skills further, particularly in relation to analysing information and thinking more pragmatically with your studies. The experience confirmed my chosen career path of becoming a solicitor, but more specifically doing so at an international commercial firm.

Vacation Scheme students get the opportunity to sit in two departments throughout the scheme, the length of which depends on the Scheme you have applied for (Spring/Summer). In my opinion, the Scheme was meticulously organised by the Graduate Recruitment Team who made sure we got full exposure to all aspects of the firm. This was ranging from meeting senior members of the London Management Committee to seeing the law in practice, but also experiencing the friendly culture the firm is renowned for in the City.

Throughout my time at the firm, it was clear that the friendly culture of the firm is not a façade. I was made to feel as a real, valued member of the team and that the non-hierarchical structure of the firm meant that it was easy to approach people of all levels across a plethora of departments.

The firm placed a real emphasis on personal training and development. There were structured sessions that focussed on Pro Bono work and the firms approach to CSR. As well as this, we had a presentation and workshop on presentation skills that was very useful.

The insight enabled me to understand what it would be like as a trainee solicitor at the firm, as I was assisting the trainees with matters they would otherwise had been asked to do by their supervisor.

The firm is renowned for being one of the most friendliest firms in the City! It was great to see that whilst I was there the people really epitomised this.

The entire scheme has confirmed my career ambitions of qualifying as a solicitor.

The pay is more than enough to cover expenses whilst in London.

Yes, there was regularly inter-departmental meetings from which I networked with a variety of different people ranging from partners to associates. As well as this, the firm hosted a variety of networking events with people from other departments I was not in, so I could further my exposure to the firm.

The social events were a fantastic opportunity to network with people on a more informal basis and find out more about their paths at the firm.

Yes, as mentioned we had Pro Bono and CSR presentations which highlighted the opportunities people can get involved in.

Wholeheartedly - it was a honest, genuine and fantastic experience to have been a part of.