Intern Review

This vacation scheme at Herbert Smith Freehills was a very enjoyable insight into the legal profession and I very much enjoyed my time spent with the firm. It proved to be a well-structured and organised scheme, providing plenty of engaging work. We had the opportunity to get to know other interns, associates and partners through organised networking and social events.

Throughout my two weeks spent at Herbert Smith Freehills, my work was appreciated by the team, making me feel like a valued and respected member of the firm. My work contributed to real-time projects, with my work being viewed by the clients. My team valued my input and suggestions, providing me with the confidence to contribute to group discussions.

There was a fantastic system of support at Herbert Smith Freehills. Each vacation scheme participant was provided with a dedicated supervisor, who tended to be a senior associate or a partner. My supervisor provided detailed feedback on all of my work and was acted as a supportive mentor throughout my time with the firm.

As we had the opportunity to work on projects and tasks similar to what trainees would be doing, I had the chance to develop invaluable knowledge and experience for the future. Moreover, I develop many transferable skills, such as research and presentation skills, that will not only benefit me with my degree, but also in my future career pursuits as a commercial lawyer.

I found the vacation scheme to be extremely well structured, with a good variation in the type of activities we were doing. As well as the desk work, we had the opportunity to take part in other activities, such as a team bonding exercise with the other interns and networking events.

There was a great atmosphere at Herbert Smith Freehills and I found everyone to be very supportive and friendly! Everyone who I encounter was more than happy to answer my many questions, providing insightful and honest answers. The open-door policy at the firm has fostered an open and inclusive environment, which was great to be a part of!

It was extremely evident how much Herbert Smith Freehills had invested into this vacation scheme, which was focused around our personal development. The numerous workshops and information sessions developed our knowledge and skills immensely. We also had training on WestLaw and various other legal systems that are commonly used by commercial law firms.

As we had the opportunity to work on projects and tasks similar to what trainees do on a daily basis, I felt that I got a real insight into what it would be like to be a trainee at the firm. Furthermore, the networking sessions provided the opportunity to ask questions about day-to-day life at Herbert Smith Freehills and this vacation scheme provided the opportunity to become immersed in the culture at the firm.

This vacation scheme proved to be an insightful way to understand more about the culture at the firm. As mentioned, this scheme provided the opportunity to become fully immersed in the culture, truly understanding the values of the firm and how associates, partners and support staff interact with one another on a day-to-day basis.

Before undertaking this vacation scheme, I was already set on pursuing a career in law, however this solidified my intention to pursue a career in commercial law.

I was more than adequately paid for my time spent with Herbert Smith Freehills, being paid approximately £400 per week, making this vacations scheme one of the most highly paid scheme around. This money easily covered my accommodation, travel and food costs over the two weeks, with some left over by the end of my time with the firm.

I found the networking opportunities to be one of the best parts of the vacation scheme at Herbert Smith Freehills, with endless opportunities to meet new people and ask questions. We had a number of different social events such as a dim sum cooking evening, which was great fun as well networking drinks with the partners. I found employees to be open and engaging, providing us with insightful and honest answers about their time at the firm.

The networking opportunities were great fun and were all slightly different, providing a good variety of events!

I found out about a multitude of activities which employees can get involved with outside of their working day. There are numerous diversity and inclusion support groups, as well as sporting teams and music classes. Furthermore, each department organises after-work drinks, which provides a good opportunity to unwind out of the office.

Absolutely!