Work Experience Review

I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to gain an insight into the culture of the firm. I had the chance to undertake typical trainee tasks, providing a unique window into the type of work I would be undertaking in a career at the firm. I was also given the unique opportunity to be engaged in a client development project. This allowed me to gain an increased appreciation of a law firm as a business. This insight will be highly beneficial in my future career development and was of great benefit in a recent interview.

I felt really valued by all members of the team, from trainees and associates, all the way through to partners and counsel. The client mapping project allowed me a level of partner contact that I never expected and they seemed to be thoroughly appreciative of all of the hard work I had put in.

I gained a huge amount of support, particularly from Elliot, who was so generous with his time in explaining different legal tasks to me and collaborating on complex issues. He would push me to give difficult trainee tasks a go on my own first, giving me a level of responsibility I didn't expect, but really appreciated.

Everything that I learnt will be invaluable. I have not only been provided with an insight into life as a lawyer, confirming my desire to pursue a career in commercial law, but also gained valuable skills and knowledge which I was successfully able to implement in a recent interview.

Unfortunately, it was not part of a formal scheme so there was not a huge amount of structure. However, I did get the opportunity rotate seats halfway through, allowing me to experience a stark contrast in work and people. Everyone tried to keep me as busy as they could, giving me a range of legal and business development work to undertake.

The atmosphere in the office was quite quiet actually. I think this was partly related to the open plan lay out they were having to deal with in the swing space. However, everyone was very friendly and welcoming, even when they were stressed or tired, people would make an effort to check how I was getting on.

I was given lots of opportunities to attend training sessions and team meetings across a wide range of areas within banking and projects.

I was fortunate enough to basically assume the role of a trainee. I was given tasks which they would usually assign to a trainee (first seat), so I believe I saw a small insight into trainee life (not as many hours)

As I was working at the firm for a full month I was fully immersed into the culture of the firm and gained a true first-hand insight as I was not part of a formal scheme (I was treated as a trainee)

The insight, fully solidified my desire to pursue a career in commercial law. Although I don't think it will be at Linklaters due to timings of interviews and schemes, it is definitely the sector I want to be working in.

However, the flights and accommodation were very expensive and I have heard on other schemes support was given for these. However, as this was not a formal scheme and I was incredibly fortunate to be offered the opportunity I completely understand the distinction.

There were not a huge number, but this is understandable as it was not a formal scheme. I found that I had to actively suggest I went to meetings, but they were very receptive to these ideas.

There were very few, but this was because it was not part of a formal scheme. I did get to attend various business meetings and training sessions where I was able to meet a broader range of lawyers though.

Yes, it sounded amazing to be out in Hong Kong, even on secondment. the city is rich in amazing culture, food, bars and hiking. Whilst I was there I fully took advantage of the opportunities to visit outlying islands and tried a wide variety of restaurants and bars.

I would highly recommend anyone to apply for a vacation scheme at Linklaters. It is a great form with an inclusive, collaborative and innovative culture. I will even be promoting the from as brand ambassador in Oxford.