Insight Scheme and Deal Spotlight Activity Debrief Review

The insight involved all the students on Zoom listening to Corporate partners and Pro Bono Associates talk about their role at DLA Piper. We got the opportunity to talk and ask questions at the end about the firm and what the culture is like. During the programme we got the chance to work on hypothetical tasks via Forage to get a good understanding of the certain tasks a commercial lawyer would undertake. We also got to listen to the recruitment team talk about psychometric testing

You learn a lot about commercial awareness throughout the programme. You understand the specific skills that a commercial lawyer would need in order to carry out tasks. Throughout the programme I developed my confidence and communication skills through networking with the trainees and I learnt about the importance of having critical thinking skills especially during the application process as this is a key skill that will be assessed for the summer internship and training contract from the watson glaser

It was interesting to understand the breakdown of commercial law. There are various sectors within commercial law where the tasks differentiate a lot. I understood the versatile nature of the work at DLA Piper and how secondments work where you can develop your legal knowledge abroad in a different jurisdiction. It was interesting to learn more about dispute and resolution as that is a field that I found particularly interesting. The programme allows you to develop your business mindset as well as your legal knowledge.

The company culture was very optimistic and inclusive. The company offer a range of campaigns to their employees like the MOSAIC campaign to make people feel more welcomed as they try to tackle the prejudices certain individuals face in society. There are social events available to talk to clients as well as other diversity initiatives which show the firms passion to embrace inclusivity. Their pro bono work is a key thing at DLA Piper where they have worked with many charities and are offered to first trainees to take part in too.

I really enjoyed the insight the graduate recruitment team were very welcoming and more than happy to offer support to every individual. It was a well structured programme with various speaks so we could get a all rounded perspective of the firm. The programme exceeded my expectations and the events were very unique to DLA Piper like the 'Demystifying Law' talk which helped break down the commercial jargon. As much as I loved the programme, I wish I got the chance to ask further questions as we were pressed for time.

Yes

I would say to be yourself as they aren't expecting you to know everything about the industry. They embrace inclusivity and uniqueness so being the best version of yourself is all you can do. They recommend you practice psychometric testing before you apply for any programme with DLA Piper as it will set you up for success. Make sure you understand the application process, including the assessment center before so you are well prepared for it.