Work Experience Review

The placement provided a perfect blend of practical, educational and social opportunities - this allowed me to gain a genuine insight into the workings and culture of the firm.

The employees that I can into contact with in both departments were very accomodating and on hand to help at all times. They endeavoured to provide me with real and varied work. I feel that I experienced a breadth of work that was reflective of the work of a trainee lawyer. I believe that I contributed real work at all times and this was certianly valued by my supervisor and other colleagues.

This was a distinguishing element of the scheme. Graduate Recruitment, my supervisors, trainee buddy and all the other colleagues that I came into contact with were always on hand to offer support and guidance at all times. I was impressed by the investment of time that the Partners, Associates and Trainees put into the scheme and I feel this is reflective of value the firm places on attracting the best talent. I never felt that I could not approach anyone during my time, which was important when tackling a variety of tasks.

There was a genuine effort to keep the work varied and constant on the scheme. I felt that I experienced a nice blend of tasks. As with every law firm, the departments could be very busy at times and struggled to give out work that I could contribute with.

I feel that my supervisors gave me real work at all times and there was never an issue with asking to get involved with transactions and cases that interested me.

I feel that the placement was particularly worthwhile. I have learnt a significant amount in a short period of time and I believe that the variety of work and talks that you experience during your time make the scehme particularly enlightening.

This was my first Vacation Scheme but I have been to a number of Open Days and Insight Schemes and I can categorically say that the atmosphere in the office is very positive (in comparison to elsewhere). There is a genuine open door policy and I was particularly impressed by the rapport between trainees (regardless of what seat they were in). I feel that the positive atmosphere is conducive to a more efficient workplace.

The scheme was very well organised and structured. We undertook a variety of tasks and were presented with an opportunity to speak with all areas of the firm. I feel that the blend of activities made for an enjoyable but also productive time.

The personal attention of the supervisors allowed me to learn a significant amount on the scheme. Unfortunately the departmental training sessions were postponed on both occasions but aside from that there was close attention to our development over the two weeks.

The assessment over the two weeks is very fair and transparent. One is assessed on feedback, a written business exam and a two Partner interview.

Our group on the scheme were very close, which made for a more pleasant experience overall. In contrast to other schemes, there was no sense of competition amongst us and it seemed a collective effort.

The firm were very good at supporting us at social events and there were a number of lunches and dinners provided.

N/A (We did go to All Star Lanes one evening. That was thoroughly enjoyable albeit the night before my interview the following day.

Given the busy schedule, it was difficult to get involved in any activities outside of what was organised. Nevertheless, there was a good blend of evening events and nights off to recoup.