Clifford Chance Access Development Intern Review

Included diverse activities such as interactive case studies tackled in small teams relaying key discoveries back to the group, and informative presentations into the workings of the firm, key practice areas, in addition to building broader skills such as using LinkedIn, how to create personal branding, or university preparation and tips. We gained insights from an array of various employees (approx. 100) with different experiences within the firm and different backgrounds; with intermittent breaks and networking lunches to build our portfolio of connections.

This programme has undoubtedly improved my confidence and interpersonal/intercultural communication skills, interacting with a range of individuals, further boosting my team work skills. It has enhanced my analytical skills and my ability to logically and convincingly reason through carefully dissecting case studies, encouraging me to be punctilious whilst advocating my interpretation. Moreover, the programmes pertinent emphasis on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), for example having an hour talk/discussion from the firm's Global Director of Inclusion, or a LGBTQIA+ focus on case studies, solidified my ability to be empathetic, kind and responsible, driving us all to become compassionate legal practitioners.

Ultimately, insights into the firm and its roles were inspiring and exciting, pushing me to focus on my tenacity and discipline, engraining my drive and ambition to excel in my current academia and wider engagement through work experience and networking, to inevitably improve my chances into getting into the firm. Moreover, the varied, diverse and stimulating work that Clifford Chance tackles, highlighted different pathways into accessing a career in law and more specifically Clifford Chance as a firm.

The undoubtedly open, compassionate and driven culture was clearly expressed over the four days, and is what particularly stood out as an attractive feature of the firm. Their emphasis on inclusion and their commitment to pro-bono work, highlighted Clifford Chance's progressive attitudes. Additionally, it was clear that whilst they value hard-work, commitment, diligence and intellectually stimulating work, they simultaneously advocated for team-work, creativity and innovation; therefore creating a well balanced and dynamic work atmosphere.

The friendly and approachability of the respective Clifford Chance team and my fellow interns inevitably made me feel welcome and comfortable. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience as it supplied me with an invaluable and forensic insight into the firm and its work, whilst personally improving key skills of mine, and equipping me with fruitful connections. The variety and diversity of the tasks involved, including the interactive activities, definitely made the experience engaging and thought provoking.

Yes

I would advise anyone considering a career with Clifford Chance to have an open mind into how to access the firm, as there are multiple pathways to enter. Furthermore, I'd highly recommend forensically examining the firm, what it stands for, its work and its clients, thus making a stronger and more personalised application. Ensure to be bold however genuine and authentic in your application, remembering to review and edit before you submit. Most importantly, have confidence!