First Year Insight Scheme at DLA Piper Review

Attended various workshops hosted by the DLA Piper Team on how to make a successful application with the firm, how to develop your commercial awareness and how to navigate the virtual world. There was also trainee spotlight sessions which gave participants an insight into the role of a trainee and opportunities they have received from working at the firm. In addition there were many inspirational talks lawyers in the firms employee network sharing their insight on how the firm has accommodated their needs and what makes DLA Piper an inclusive place to work at which was lovely to see.

I learnt about how to overcome imposter syndrome by understanding that I have secured my place on the programme because the firm believed that I had potential so I should always believe in my self and strive to be my best self always. I also developed my commercial awareness skills by gaining a better insight into some of the firms key practice areas and how the firm have supported their clients in dealing with issues presented by Covid-19 and Brexit.

Throughout the programme the firm invited different partners and trainees to speak about their roles and career progressions and transferable skills they had gained from their work experiences that supported their application to work at DLA Piper. All information presented on the business and potential roles available was very clear and well communicated. There was always a question and answer session at the end to allow participants to ask additional questions. I was given an insight into how trainees are selected, how many seats they have to complete, opportunities for international and client secondments. Also, a lot of information was given about partner progression.

The company culture was genuinely very inclusive. All the staff were approachable and happy to answer my questions about their practice area and day to day roles. The firm has a diverse range of employee networks that you can join such as IRIS for people who consider themselves to be part of the LGBTQ+ community and also for allies who support their needs. There is also a network for BAME staff called MOSAIC and a women empowerment network called LAW. They all work together in producing different initiatives that ensure that the firm has open conversation about everyone feeling appreciated in the workplace which is amazing.

I really enjoyed the insight programme as I left feel more knowledgeable about the business of the firm and also the opportunities available to me if I decide to work here in the future. My favourite part was the different partner talks which were very inspirational and informative. Also, I enjoyed the trainee panel and hearing about their application experiences, the type of cases they work on and the different socials that are held with different offices at the firm. I would highly recommend anyone in their first year of a three year degree or second year of a four year degree to apply because you will leave feeling very motivated to pursue a career in commercial law.

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One tip I would give to others applying to DLA Piper is to build your commercial awareness. In your applications you are asked to speak about a news article that you are interested in. To prepare for this, I would recommend reading different articles from BBC News, Financial Times that interest you and also listen to podcasts based on the topic you are reading on so you have a holistic oversight on different issues it may present economically, politically and technologically. Also, how this may impact the firm.