Vacation Scheme Student Review

I really enjoyed my time at Hogan Lovells. The scheme provided an insight into life at a commercial law firm and what I would be doing as a trainee at Hogan Lovells. From the first day, I was welcomed into the firm by partners, associates and trainees and enjoyed working alongside them as well as my fellow vacation schemers.

I felt very valued during my time there. We were given various presentations during the week which clearly showed that Hogan Lovells cared about us. Furthermore, in both departments I was sitting in (Competition and Insurance Litigation) I was given real work which highlighted to me that I was making a real contribution.

Excellent level of guidance from mentors.

Through the presentation I delivered with my team of vacation schemers, I have developed the ability to work in a team and give presentations. These are clearly both vital skills required of trainee solicitors. Furthermore, I developed the ability to closely read information in the Competition team which will be useful during my final year at university.

The insight was very well structured. We had presentations and case studies most mornings from different practice areas/the pro bono team. We then were left to our departments during the day. In the evenings, around two or three times a week, we had various social events. We also had allotted time to complete our presentations.

Hogan Lovells heavily invested in me. The week started with skills sessions - one for IT skills, another for research skills and a final one for presentation skills. There was then various informal and formal training sessions throughout the week. I particularly enjoyed a seminar on merger control conducted by the Competition team in partnership with Financial Services.

It gave me an excellent idea as I was working and networking with so many people at the firm. I had dinners/social events with trainees, associates and partners. In my departments I worked with trainees and associates and even attended training sessions run by partners. I felt like a member of the firm in just 2 weeks.

It was very valuable as I had the opportunity to work in various departments which interested me and could see the type of work I'd be doing on a daily basis. The mock client pitch also showed me the sort of work I'd be doing as a partner which, again, was helpful.

£400/week salary.

There were many varied netorking opportunities. There was a cake decorating session with trainees which was an informal way to get to know them. There was also a darts night at a nearby bar as well as an end of scheme dinner at a hotel with Partners which was a fabulous way to end the scheme.

I found out about various activities. The scheme highlighted that many pro bono opportunities are open to lawyers i.e. working with social enterprises, representing immigrants. Furthermore, there are various sports clubs on offer e.g. rugby. There is also an in-house gym which runs various classes throughout the week. There are also various pop-up events and galas.

I would definitely recommend this insight to a friend. It is equally valuable for those who are new to commercial law as well as those who have a detailed understanding of commercial law. It is particularly useful if you're considering working at Hogan Lovells and want a better idea of what it would be like to work there.