First Year Insight Scheme Review

I thoroughly enjoyed the First Year Insight Scheme. The entire event was extremely well organised, the presentations and workshops were useful and the networking opportunities were abundant. The only thing that I would have liked was to undergo any type of work shadowing, regardless of department/length/tasks given, as this would give us a better insight as to the actual day-to-day work at DLA Piper. However, given the number of students at the scheme, I understand if this is not possible.

The firm did everything they could to make us feel welcome and comfortable. The provision of food throughout the day, as well as taking us to dinner in the City, was extremely generous and made the experience even more enjoyable. The organisers of the event did their utmost to make us feel valued.

There were always people around if there were any questions which needed to be answered. Once again, the organisers were extremely warm and friendly and supported us through all of the exercises. The partners that were invited to speak to us were also extremely helpful and encouraging, especially those that were listening to our presentations. I never felt intimidated to voice my opinions despite so many partners and senior associates being present. They were incredibly encouraging and reassuring.

We received information on the legal industry in general, DLA Piper, the route to a career in law, and general application advice. I felt that the information about how a corporate deal works was extremely useful, and I also gained information that would be very useful in interviews. The CV information was also very useful.

The insight was well structured overall. The only comment I would have is that the lunch break was a bit too long, I feel that it could have been shortened by half an hour to have time for another exercise. I liked the fact that the insight scheme was 3 days instead of 2, like other firms.

The atmosphere was great, no faults. The people I met were bright, interesting, and enjoyable to be around. All of the trainees I met were extremely helpful and gave great advice. Everyone was so friendly and made us feel very valued and privileged to be on the programme. The organisers were also great.

The only reason why I was not reimbursed expenses is because I did not incur any.