GDL Student Review

The vacation scheme was really enjoyable. The two weeks were really well structured, with lots of events throughout. Sitting in two different practice areas gave a really good insight into the types of work the firm do. Also, all the people were very welcoming and friendly. The social events were great fun too!

Throughout the vacation scheme it was clear that HSF value all their employees. I felt very well looked after throughout the scheme. At all the social events, all the employees, from trainees to partners, were approachable and really easy to talk to. People always asked after us, and were genuinely interested in what we had to say.

We received lots of guidance and support. This came from several different sources. Graduate recruitment were very helpful and always on hand to answer questions. We also had a trainee buddy for each seat, who was available to introduce us to the teams and to answer any questions. Also, sitting with a supervisor provided support both for completing work and by giving insight into the firm.

The skills I learnt will be very useful during my career. I learnt how to conduct legal research, and how to draft research memos. You also learn about the law itself, specifically elements of commercial law, and how to apply it to real world problems to help solve clients' problems.

The vacation scheme was really well structured, with an extensive programme of events taking place over the two weeks. The timings and location of events was always very well communicated, and I thought there was a really good balance of learning and development events, departmental presentations and social and networking events.

The general atmosphere was really good throughout. Between the vacation scheme students there was a really good atmosphere, and this continued through to the wider firm atmosphere. Everybody was very welcoming, and you felt like you could approach anybody and ask questions. Graduate recruitment did a very good job of welcoming everyone, and organising us throughout the scheme.

Sitting with a supervisor for the two weeks ensured that we could ask any questions we had, and learn more about the context of the work (as well as anything else you were interested in). We had a learning and development session, which was very useful, and opportunities to receive feedback on our performance.

The vacation scheme was an excellent way to understand what a full time role with the company would be like. We were able to complete the same work as a trainee, which was excellent experience. There was also lots of opportunity to network with more senior employees and find out what their role involved.

The company's culture was very apparent having completed the scheme. It was very welcoming, inclusive and diverse. This was the case for all members of the firm I met, from trainees to partners. It was also clear from all the departmental talks, and from networking events with employees of the firm.

There were lots of opportunities to network with people from all areas of the firm. I had several meetings with trainees and associate over the course of the scheme to ask any questions I had. The partner drinks was also an excellent opportunity to network and meet people throughout the firm.