Vacation Scheme Student Review

I really enjoyed my time at Stephenson Harwood. You really feel like you are part of the firm, whether it is going on the Legal Walk or listening in on calls with clients. I would really recommend doing the scheme as it is enjoyable and you learn a lot from two different departments.

Due to the small intake, you really feel every person has a chance and wants to get to know you. Everyone, from trainee to partner, looks out for you and takes time to sit down and talk to you. Everyone is open to your questions and makes you feel like you are part of the firm.

The graduate recruitment really takes care of you in the time at the firm. Your supervisor and buddy are great in giving support, guidance and advice. Overall, you never feel like you are alone and you always have people you are working with that will take their time to sit down with you and support you as much as you need depending on whatever stage you're at.

The placement offers fantastic exposure. You get to do real trainee tasks, from drafting to research tasks. It helps you develop your skills and teaches you what it is like to work for Stephenson Harwood. All the skills are transferable which is great for whatever stage you are at in life.

The graduate recruitment clearly put a lot of effort into making sure the scheme runs smoothly. Every vac schemer knew from the beginning what the two weeks would look like, from workshops to evening events. Even the supervisors and buddies has things planned for you before you even arrived at the firm.

People are really friendly. Everyone works hard but there is definitely strong collaboration and support. If you are looking for a firm with a mix of both I would definitely recommend Stephenson Harwood. The vac scheme provided an ideal place for you to grow and experience things in a supportive environment.

There were lots of workshop sessions during the two weeks at the firm. You got exposure to every department which really helped you understand practice areas on a bigger scale and also specific to Stephenson Harwood. Development is really valued here especially as you move closer to being a trainee and beyond.

During the vacation scheme you are fully involved in the firm working normal hours. A lot of the tasks will be the same tasks trainees get at the beginning of their seats, giving you real insight into what a full time role looks like. Sitting with a supervisor also gives you exposure to the everyday life of an associate or partner.

Getting exposed to two different practice areas really helps you understand the firm. This coupled with lots of talks, workshops and socials allows you to understand what the firm values in their people but also how the firm works all year round. It will help you when making the choice of where to go.

Being exposed to two practice areas in full, and lots more during workshops, gave me really good insights into what the career of a lawyer looks like. This in turn helps you decide whether this is something for you, or even which departments you are more drawn to which is a choice you will have to make eventually.

There were lots of opportunities to get to know the firm. I went on evening drinks with my department as well with my other vac schemers to socials. We also got to participate in the Legal Walk which was great. It really helps you network with people at the firm no matter what level they are at.

I would definitely recommend the Stephenson Harwood scheme to a friend. Anyone looking for a good work experience in which you meet lovely people but also get exposure to real work should apply. Being really involved in the firm allows you to get a grasp of the career and especially to the firm culture.