Vacation Schemer Review

I enjoyed the Vacation Scheme very much as it provided me with an in-depth insight into what a career within the legal department of a multi-disciplinary firm would look like. I was able to witness the social and professional elements of this job, which further assured me about wanting to develop a legal career.

During my three week Vacation Scheme, I worked with a different team each week. In each seat, I was given tasks which contributed to the productivity of the firm from day 1. I felt extremely valued as my workload was very active and much autonomy was given as to how I wanted to approach most tasks.

The Buddy Scheme in place was an absolute blessing. I was able to speak to my Buddy about anything and everywhere with regards to settling into the firm - in an informal manner, making it easier to communicate effectively. Even besides my Buddy, it felt like all trainees were aware of everything that was going on during the Vacation Scheme and were willing to provide any help and guidance required.

I believe that the skills I developed during my Vacation Scheme will prove to be of greater assistance with it comes to having a full-time job. The skills were more practical than they were content-based, thus limiting their impact on my degree studies but enhancing everyday skills and abilities that one should be confident with in a professional environment.

I think the insight was a realistic portrayal of how busy working at a law firm can get. The structure was well organised: we have three seats in three weeks, weekly assessments and numerous socials - all of which was to be balanced with tasks given on a daily basis.

Absolutely brilliant. Whilst the self-imposed pressure of obtaining the Training Contract was evident, it was also visible that people wanted you to succeed in what you do. Everyone was very helpful and wanted to involve you in as many opportunities as possible. It was obvious from the very beginning that the experience was meant to be one of learning and one of enjoyment.

PwC invests in me through sponsoring my Legal Practice Course before I begin my Training Contract. By providing the financial backing that is needed, there is much less pressure and I am able to focus all my energy towards studying. PwC also offers numerous self-development opportunities that employees can take advantage of in their own time.

I feel like I know exactly what to expect when I begin my Training Contract. The Vacation Scheme was an accurate depiction of what life as a trainee solicitor would look like in terms of the workload, expectations and time management. I feel fully ready to meet my own and the firm's expectations of me as a trainee solicitor.

I believe that you are able to understand the culture of the firm from the very first day. This is primarily because all the statements found online on the firm's website about the firm's culture are definitely fully accurate and therefore there is no culture shock when you first arrive.

The Vacation Scheme convinced me fully about wanting to work at a law firm. However, it also made me open about the particular sector that I would like to work in. Being previously keen on commercial law only, I am now open to other areas, such as private client and real estate.

If you ever wanted to network with anyone in particular, you could always just send a quick message through an informal application used by the company. Given the culture, most people were happy to have a quick chat over some coffee or lunch to get to know you or help you out with any particular tasks.

Numerous networking events were planned for the Vacation Scheme. It was a great opportunity to connect with potential future employees and understand the job through informal, out-of-work conversations with current trainees, all of whom attended at least one of the events.

I learned about the possibility of getting involved with activities outside of work, but in all honesty - the three weeks were packed enough to be able to take advantage of the opportunity.

I already have!