Vacation scheme student Review

The scheme was split into four main components; working in our practice groups; attending daily talks on the firms practice areas, pro bono and ESG initiatives; completing assessed tasks and arranging coffee chats with people from across the firm. Some of my tasks included a contract review, legal research, article writing and sitting in on client calls. We also had a variety of social events with both our vacation scheme cohort and our practice groups.

I developed my time management skills, as at times, the workload was quite high at points depending on the practice groups. I learnt how to respond to emails promptly and communicate my own capacity to other members of the team. I was also able to look at real contracts for the first time and feel like I improved my practical legal skills. I think the range of tasks I was given helped me to improve the conciseness of my written work.

The firm made the role of a trainee solicitor very clear, as well as how this role changes as you move up through the firm into more senior positions. They emphasised the breadth of opportunity at a global law firm like Linklaters, and made sure we understood the different options available (for example, international and client secondments.) We also got a great insight into the workflow of different practice areas as well as alternative routes former lawyers have taken while remaining in the firm.

The company culture was fantastic. The structure felt notably 'flat' for an industry that is traditionally hierarchical and all of the teams I sat in felt particularly collegiate compared to other firms I have undertaken schemes at. Everyone was extremely open about both the highs and lows of a career at Linklaters, and everyone I reached out to made time to chat to me about their work and why they choose to stay at the firm.

I really enjoyed the insight. I got the opportunity to be a part of a lot of 'rea' tasks, and felt the team really made an effort to get to know me as an individual. I was asked about my particular areas of interest and this was accommodated (I even got to sit in my top two choices of practice areas.) I was able to take on trainee level of responsibility in my second seat.

Yes

I would advise anyone to be as genuine as possible and not worry about fitting a certain mould. Applying to these types of firms can be intimidating, but I felt like Linklaters were looking for people with potential rather than those who knew all the answers. Ensure you know what differentiates the firm and, at interview stage, do not be afraid of making mistakes. If you can show a desire to problem solve and reach a good answer, this is all they are looking for.