A&O First Student Review

I really enjoyed the scheme. It was great being mixed up on the first day and do team exercises because you got pushed out of your comfort zone, the quiz and building challenge were great ice breakers . I enjoyed the social. The interaction with some many employees was also really enjoyable. the scheme was never boring.

the scheme gave a real impression that what we were doing in each task mattered to us as a whole and wasn't just an exercise in GR showing off A&O. all the talks developed us as future employees so I felt valued. all the lawyers and staff who dedicated their time to us also made me feel valued.

there was always support available and it was clear what we were doing. the negotiation exercise was by far my favourite part, it was great to have immediate feedback. the support and guidance re. coming back for interviews was also valuable. Ben's commercial awareness presentation was brilliant, and considering I've seen a variation twice before presented by Ben it is testament to how up-to-date and useful it is.

all the skills i developed will help me in future interviews and career beyond. the personal branding talk was very well delivered because sometimes i switch off for these sorts of things. I was fully engaged and have really thought about what impression i give off. i find that sort of self reflection difficult so it was great to do with an expert

it was very well strutured, none of the talks were too long and there was always a chance to ask questions. my only point would be that it'd be nice to know in advance (maybe the day before) what we would be doing. for example, for the return visit i wasn't actually sure what time we'd finish.

Very cheerful and friendly. I especially liked my buddy (by far the best out of all my first year schemes!), she was approahable, kept in touch over summer and organised more people to talk to me. everyone on the scheme was engaged and interesting which made the experience even better

A huge amount! the kindle was very generous. personal development in terms of personal branding etc. was at the top of agenda which was great because it didn't feel like we were constantly being sold the firm. the negotiation workshop and case study presentation were very useful and I feel much better prepared.

the insight gave me a lot of understanding in what it would be like to work in the firm, as a trainee then further career progression, and all the various networks available. the global aspect was really hammered home and that was a really great insight in how things would be.

the buddy system and joint lunches gave me a good insight of the culture as i met a lot of different people from all walks of life and who had different experiences in the firm. the culture was clearly portrayed in when i participated in the work shadowing as well.

it was very helpful as all the opportunities were well displayed, the clear structure and quality training were well explained. the only suggestion i have would be more emphasis on how the training differs to other MC firms (if at all because i know all MC firms are extremely highly regarded for this)

Lots, really well organised as well. I think the lunches were a great opportunity because often the big tables meant it became a group discussion. it was great to talk to graduate recruitment quite often/through the scheme as well. it was made clear that we could come back and have more opportunities to network as well

yes, very well explained in regard to networks and pro bono opportunities.