Spring Insight Scheme Participant Review

I participated in a series of talks and interactive workshops which: introduced me to the firm and some of its major sectors/services, and enabled me to develop my networking and negotiation skills. On the second day, I joined the Intellectual Property team, shadowing a trainee; here, I conducted some research to support a patent defence case, as well as joining a meeting with a client whose business (and intellectual property) was being acquired.

The speed networking session massively enhanced my confidence in networking and communication, whilst the negotiation exercise enabled me to implement my general negotiation skills in a more corporate context, in addition to developing my teamwork skills. During my day in the IP department, I was also able to apply the research skills which I have developed during my science degree in a legal setting, which was incredibly fascinating for me.

The talks given throughout the two days (e.g. introduction to the firm, FinTech and ESG) provided valuable insights into the strategy of the firm and the fascinating directions in which the firm is likely to go in the future (e.g. especially for the introduction to Simmons Wavelength). I found the second day in the IP department most informative with respect to the potential roles and opportunities for career progression available in the firm.

The culture and atmosphere in the firm was fantastic. Every Simmons&Simmons employee who I interacted with during the two days was so incredibly welcoming and genuinely appeared extremely content working at the firm. During my time in the IP department, I also loved the incredibly collaborative atmosphere of the firm, with partners, associates and trainees all working together in an extremely nonhierarchical manner to deliver the best possible solution for the client.

I absolutely loved the insight; I found every talk/activity throughout the two days fascinating, and it really confirmed my desire to pursue a career in corporate law (and definitely at Simmons&Simmons!). I particularly loved the second day in which I was placed in the IP department; I thought that it was wonderful to be given the opportunity at such an early stage to both complete research independently and to join a client meeting.

Yes

I would advise them to definitely give it a go, regardless of their educational background (e.g. I am from a scientific background), but to definitely research into the major sector areas of the firm to confirm that they align with their personal interests, and to carefully consider their motivation for pursuing a career in corporate law (though to join the insight scheme, I don't think you need to worry at all about having made a definite decision).