Summer Intern Review

I thoroughly enjoyed my time during this Virtual Internship Programme. Whilst the circumstances this year were unfortunate, I believe that the Graduate Recruitment team made an enjoyable week that ensured that we learned about DLA Piper and the values that they hold. The setup was very effective and ensured that everyone was able to attend the scheme.

I believe that the level of planning and effort that was put into this virtual scheme shows that all the interns were highly valued by the firm, as they worked hard to find a solution that would help us all given the coronavirus. We were also given a significant amount of time with our buddies.

Throughout this scheme, we were given a significant amount of guidance and support. We were constantly informed of the opportunities available to us and the team were very supportive if any of us had issues surrounding internet connections. We were constantly informed of the schedule throughout the week and were informed of how to join. We were also given great support by our buddies.

The week spent on the virtual scheme helped me develop significant skills that I believe will help support me beyond my degree studies. One of the key tasks we worked on throughout the week was a group presentation, and this helped develop our team working and presentation skills. I also developed my knowledge of the Etiquette surrounding virtual conferencing calls, which I believe will help me in the future.

The scheme was very well organised. We were sent a clear schedule before the scheme started and this enabled us to understand the week ahead. The team also made it clear when we had the opportunity to ask questions and told us the preferred format for doing so, which made it clear to both us and the speaker

Everyone seemed to thoroughly enjoy this scheme. Given the nature of the scheme, there was a good sense of team and camaraderie as we were all trying a virtual internship for the first time. I believe that this made the scheme more enjoyable, as everyone was happy to experience this.

Unfortunately, given the current pandemic, we were unable to develop as much as the team may have wanted, but I believe that we were still able to develop a good amount through team working and through learning about the firm. The Graduate Recruitment Team ensured that we were given every opportunity to develop.

Throughout this scheme, we were informed about the role of trainees and associates in the firm. We were shown the benefits that can come from it and the level of support that is given to all who work there. I believe that this was clearly communicated throughout the programme to all of us.

We were constantly shown the culture of the company and the support present within it. We were told of the support schemes and teams that make the firm better and ensure equality for all. We were shown the events that are held and were informed of the kind and welcoming nature of the firm.

Personally, the content was extremely valuable. I have known for a while that I want to be a lawyer and understanding the culture of DLA Piper and the support available helped confirm that it is a firm that I want to work for. If I am given the opportunity to become a trainee, this scheme will have helped my career path greatly.

Even though we never had the ability to come into the office, DLA Piper still paid us a good amount. We were also given vouchers for Just Eat, which demonstrated to us the value that the firm placed on us as interns. I believe that the firm was extremely generous given the circumstances.

Even though we were not able to go to the office, the firm still provided the opportunity for us to meet employees of the firm. I believe that this was extremely valuable, as we were able to hear about their journeys and understand their place in the firm and the work they do.

Given the current pandemic, we were unable to attend the office itself or meet up with anyone on the scheme in person, however, the firm still provided us with a few opportunities to network and enjoy social events. The key one was a quiz with trainees, which was lighthearted and allowed us to meet other members of the virtual scheme.

Throughout the scheme, we were informed of the opportunities available to employees outside of work, including pro-bono work, sports opportunities and social events. We were shown the support networks in the firm that help everyone be included and were told that employees have the opportunity to join these teams and make the firm better.

I would thoroughly recommend this scheme to a friend. I am one of the only people to have experienced this scheme both in person last year and as part of the virtual scheme. The Graduate Recruitment team clearly puts a lot of effort into this scheme and this effort is reflected in the events and support that the interns feel