Winter Placement Scheme Participant Review

I throroughly enjoyed the placement scheme. The firm held several presentations on different practice areas that enabled me to gain an in-depth understanding of the nature of their work, such as by discussing trainee tasks and examples of issues the firm advised on. Some of the presenters interacted lots with the participants, which added an extra element of fun. The future talent team had clearly spent lots of time organising the scheme to ensure all participants gained lots from it and enjoyed it. This included organising virtual social events and sending parcels out to participants for creative challenges.

I felt valued by the firm during the scheme, with my buddy and supervisor giving me their contact details so they could answer any questions I had in the future. I appreciated them giving their time to me and being supportive in helping me to develop. The future talent team cared about our views and asked for feedback on our highlights and something new that we learned during the week. Also, any questions or suggestions during presentations were treated with respect. No question was treated like it was silly to ask.

The placement scheme was virtual so it was useful to be sent a guide to the video platform we used in case anything did not work. The future talent team were happy to accomodate any technical issues, e.g. if there were problems with breakout rooms, so that we could make the most out of the scheme. I received lots of support from my supervisor and buddy, who were happy to continue supporting me beyond the formal timetable if I had any questions about the firm and their work. Also, a group chat was made which allowed the participants to contact each other about any questions or issues we were having.

The presentations on the different practice areas allowed me to gain in-depth information that I would not have been able to access without a place on the scheme. This has given me an insight into potential seat choices if I get a training contract. Also, we were assigned a research task for a practice area without being given any information on the nature of their work before hand. I enjoyed this session since I had not previously considered a career in this branch of law. I was able to improve my research, teamwork and presentation skills through a variety of tasks across the week.

I was provided with a thorough timetable of the placement scheme in advance. The timetable was well respected, with most events occuring on time and not overruning. This allowed me to prepare for some of the sessions and allowed participants to refresh during breaks. The structure was tailored to allow participants to perform well in their tasks. For example, we had a presentation on the first day and later in the week we had to deliver our own presentation related that was related to it.

Given that the scheme was conducted virtually due to Covid-19, there were occasional drawbacks, such as finding it difficult to work out who spoke first and people's connections being unstable. This was unavoidable and the firm did several things to combat this, such as by sending packages to participants in the post for social events and by organising a virtual lunch with buddies. Everyone was very friendly and caring. I did not feel that anybody was trying to be competitive. This allowed everyone to have their moments to shine. There was a welcoming atmosphere that felt very inclusive.

The firm placed a lot of investment into helping participants gain a greater understanding of the work the firm does. During presentations on practice areas, we often had two associates delivering the information. The firm gave participants several tasks that required research, presenation and teamwork skills. I enjoyed improving these skills and exercising them in a legal conduct. Whilst the scheme could have been improved by allowing participants to assist with real work, this was probably difficult to do because of Covid-19.

Most of the practice area presentations had sections that focused on trainee tasks. This enabled me to understand how I would fit into their teams and the nature of my role if I were to work as a trainee solicitor at Stephenson Harwood. During the social events, I heard trainees discuss some of their experiences with each other. I enjoyed hearing this natural conversation and finding out what makes the work interesting or challenging from their perspectives.

Covid-19 did not prevent me gaining a great understanding of Stephenson Harwood's culture. Every person that was involved in the scheme was friendly and engaging, whether it was future talent, presenters, buddies or my supervisor. Also, I was able to gain an insight into how the firm supports LGBT+ trainees. My supervisor was helpful in discussing how the firm provides support to trainees who are considering apply for a secondment to a country which is less LGBT+ tolerant. Furthermore, my buddy spoke about his excellent work on the firm's SHout committee. These conversations highlighted the firm's genuine support for diversity and inclusion.

The scheme confirmed my desire to pursue a career in commercial law. The presentations focused on a variety of practice areas, helping me to work out which types of law I would like further experience in. By focusing on a wide range of areas across the presentations, I was able to gain lots of information when making these decisions. Also, through some of the tasks that we were assigned, I was able to exercise the skills that will be necessary to succeed in this career. Since I enjoyed these tasks and using those skills, I feel confident pursuing a career in commercial law.

There were lots of opportunities to network with people at the firm. During the socials, I spoke with several trainees which allowed me to develop my understanding of their work and what makes it enjoyable for them. Also, the firm organised 1-on-1 meetings with my supervisor and buddy. This allowed me to network with them. I was able to discuss lots of topics about the firm and their work. Also, the relaxed nature of the conversations allowed me to discuss things beyond the scheme, such as my past work experience.

The future talent team were passionate about the social events. Participants were sent packages in the post which were used for the socials. The first social event involved using lino to make christmas cards. The second social event involved building and decorating gingerbread houses. During the second social event, we were able to talk a lot more which made the event very enjoyable. Future talent, participants and buddies all attended and were keen to get to know each other better.

My buddy talked about his work with the SHout committee. I found this very interesting, especially because of the changes they have been able to implement within the firm. During the presentations, the firm's out of work activities were highlighted, such as fundraising for their charity of the year, pro bono work and their sports teams. As this was near Christmas, we also heard about their virtual Christmas parties and secret santa events which sounded enjoyable.

I would definitely recommend this to a friend. The application process was not daunting and the firm's great culture shines throughout the programme. The scheme is hugely informative as the presentations cover their range of practice areas. This made me want to gain experience in areas of law that I had not previously been interested in. Additionally, the atmosphere among the participants was great. Everyone was very friendly and approachable. Also, compared to other events with law firms, the lack of competitiveness among the candidates stood out. This allowed everyone to perform to their best in a relaxed environment.