Summer Intern Review

Breakfast was included throughout the scheme. Working closely with our Line Managers to undertake live tasks, similar to the work of a Trainee Solicitor. Undertook tasks such as contract reviews, client meetings, legal research, document drafting etc. Lunch was fully included by the firm and was cooked by a fantastic chef. There was often social and networking events organised by the firm, to get you more comfortable and involved within the firms culture. Every member of the teams would get you involved with the day to day tasks and make you feel apart of the firm and team.

I have learnt so many skills from each seat, including both technical skills and human skills. I have learnt how to use IT and how to utilise the IT to my advantage within a fast paced law firm. I have learnt what to look for when doing due diligence in various departments, how to go about drafting different documents. I have learnt so much on how to communicate with people in my team and how to communicate to clients.

It was very inspiring to hear about what DLA does. The 4 days in London was a fantastic opportunity to hear about what the business does for its staff, clients and outside factors. The firm does fantastic things with diversity and inclusion as well as ESG. I have a great understanding of how the firm is structured, what opportunities there are to reach your full potential and how the firm will support you. There are also fantastic opportunities for secondments.

The firms atmosphere has clearly gone through a huge transformation within the last couple decades. DLA's culture is one of nurture, and definitely encourages you to be yourself and be the best lawyer you can be. Everyone was so friendly and was so chatty and wanted to talk to us and get us involved. If you have a suggestion, they firm encourages you to be bold and put forward this idea, i got the impression it would be heard and considered.

I really enjoyed the 3 weeks. The networking opportunities were just so fantastic and made the experience so much better. The work I undertook was very high level and feedback was given to help improve my skills. The people were so nice and encouraging, I felt very at home the entire time which made me enjoy it so much more. Also, we were very well looked after by graduate recruitment and the firm, treated like royalty.

Yes

Utilise all your experiences, not only during the application process but during the vacation scheme. Just be yourself, they really want to see what kind of person you are and how well you will fit in, which is best just to be yourself. Also, take everything seriously, do not take anything for granted, although you may be through to the next round of application process, or in the door for the vac scheme, it is still all assessed so do your best.