First Year Workshop Attendee Review

I feel very much valued during the workshop because associates and trainees spent their precious time interacting with us and I felt that they genuinely want us to take something away from the session. They were all very willing to share their experiences when approached and allowed me to better understand the firm.

The ADR and negotiation sessions were incredibly informative and enlightening. In particular, the actual role playing allowed us to go beyond the theory and learn through practical use of certain strategies we were taught. The advocacy group presentation was also delivered with force and would certainly help with mooting in law school.

The programme outline was clearly indicated in the handbook and was easy to follow throughout the two days. However, more time could be given for hotel check-in so that we can prepare for the socials. The work shadowing of the intern was a breath of fresh air after more lecture-style sessions.

All the lawyers in the firm were extremely friendly and the participants were also eager to get to know one another. It was a more collaborative instead of competition environment, which really appealed to me. We even had a group meal after the entire workshop ended and long-lasting bond was formed.

The workshop provided an unparalleled experience in allowing me to understand firsthand the culture and focuses of the firm. The firm’s commitment to pro bono work is truly inspiring and goes beyond paying lip service. The round table departmental fair also gave great insight to the different areas of work the firm is involved in.

I have no previously been exposed to arbitration/mediation and negotiation. The workshop elucidated what they are and sparked my interests in these area. The close client contact and the ability to help our clients reach a desire outcome in a dispute or negotiation were incredibly fulfilling elements of the job.

The reimbursement was generously capped at 150GBP. However, the process seemed quite elusive in that I was not informed of whether my email containing the receipts were received and if so, when the reimbursement will be expedited. The HR was however very approachable and responsive when I posed initial clarification regarding reimbursement.

The social night was a great concept. However, there could be more ample food because proper dinner was not provided and the social lasted till 9pm. Having said that, the HSF lawyers were really passionate about the work they do and were very much willing to share their personal motivations and experiences.

I was blown away by HSF’s emphasis on personal development of their solicitors. One of the trainees was heavily involved in sports (rugby) outside of work and great support has been given to her. The firm also encouraged pro bono work by allowing them to be entered as billable hours. The solicitors at the workshop all believed in the importance of graduate recruitment.

I would definitely recommend the workshop to my friends who are interested in disputes/advocacy and working at a global law firm with an abundance of opportunities for overseas secondment. I would also recommend it to them if they are looking for a law firm that is collaborative and supportive of their development as a person.