First Year Insight Programme Review

I enjoyed the insight programme very much. There was a nice mix of events of different natures, for example workshops and networking sessions. The staff were friendly and helpful in aiding us to get the most out of the programme. I would recommend the programme to other first law students next year.

I feel valued during my time at DLA Piper. The organisers made sure that we had exposure to different fields of work within the firm, for example corporate and IT. Our opinions and questions are well received. I believe that both students and staff are highly valued af DLA Piper.

I had a lot of guidance and support throughout the three-day programme. The organisers were present the whole time to ensure that we have all the help we need and that we can voice our concerns at any point. My peers were also very supportive in helping each other out.

The skills I developed and the information I received are very useful for my application next year as a summer intern. I learnt a lot of practical knowledge such as the different components of a deal, which could not be gained from textbooks. I also developed my presentation skills through our group project.

The insight programme was very well structured. We were given a booklet on the first day that outlined the flow of events for the programme. We were given an adequate time to rest and socialise with each other. Every session ended on time so the programme as a whole went very smoothly.

The atmosphere during the whole of the insight programme was very friendly yet professional. Students sat in round tables and so had plenty of time to socialise and interact with each other. The speakers often communicated their message in a humorous way. The staff were also very easy to approach.

The firm invested a lot in me in terms of personal training and development. We prepared and presented a group project at the end of the programme. It was a perfect opportunity for me to improve my research and presentation skills. A partner of the firm listened to our presentation and gave feedback.

The insight programme helped me to understand what it would be like to have a full time role with the company. We had the opportunity to talk to current staff from different departments such as corporate and we gained insight on the workload and specifics of roles in the company.

The insight programme helped me in understanding the company’s culture. We had a lot of opportunities to talk to the staff and they all portrayed a very positive image of the company culture. We also had sessions with staff from different departments to discuss what they think of their department.

The content throughout the three days was very valuable in helping me to decide on my future career path. I gained insight on the specifics of different departments through talks and networking sessions. I was also told about the process of applying to the firm next year as a summer intern.

I was not paid or reimbursed expenses because I am a student living in London. I know of other students in the insight programme whose expenses were paid for because they had to travel to attend the programme. Those who travelled were also provided with accommodation throughout the three days.

There were numerous opportunities for networking and meeting other employees of the firm. We had networking drinks in the evening of the first day and a networking dinner on the second day. We also met staff throughout the programme through talks and meetings. There were numerous staff from different departments.

The networking opportunities were ample and well-organised throughout the insight programme. Staff in different positions, from trainees to associates to partners, all attended some form of networking or another during the three days. We were given a lot of time to talk to different people and to know more about the firm.

I did find out about some activities that employees can get invovled in outside of work through networking sessions from the employees. There was no dedicated session in the programme that introduced the comprehensive activities outside of work because the programme was very focused on the different fields of law.

I would definitely recommend this insight programme by DLA Piper to a friend, in particular a first year law student or a second year non-law student, as this is one of the entry requirements for the programme. I learnt a tremendous lot from the programme and I would like my friends to benefit from it too.