Spring Insight Scheme Intern Review

On the first day we had talks from partners, associates, and trainees at the firm about their experiences and how they got to Simmons along with talks on areas that made Simmons unique such as their ESG sector and Simmons Solutions. We also had social events such as an art tour of the firm, an evening social and coffee with associates from all of Simmons sectors allowing us to ask specific questions to sectors that interested us. On the second day we shadowed trainees and sat in on briefings from associates as well as completing tasks such as filling out a case timetable that would be circulated to those working on the case.

I have expanded my networking skills due to the wide variety of networking events both within the firm amongst trainees and with external visitors to the firm at the social events. I have also improved my group work skills due to the pro-bono case study session we attended and gained a better understanding into how large commercial firms incorporate pro-bono into the firms structure. During my time shadowing trainees I learnt new skills critical to begin a lawyer such as being highly analytical of my work to ensure there is less room for errors.

The solutions session on Simmons use of technology and new data-analysing tools was incredibly useful to help understand the pioneering culture at Simmons and how the firm encourages creative thinking with relation to improving efficiency when dealing with complex disputes. In terms of the roles and routes into Simmons, such as understanding more about the vacation scheme, the scheme was beneficial as it highlighted the freedom of trainess when choosing their seats as well as the variety of routes available to students.

The culture at Simmons was incredibly welcoming and relaxed even during the trainee shadowing session. I felt fully supported during the scheme and able to ask questions and get advice as well as build friendships with my fellow trainees.

The scheme was very enjoyable as it combined networking opportunities, information sessions and real-life work experience ensuring I had a well-rounded insight into Simmons and the application process.

Yes

Ensure you have a grasp of Simmons different sectors, especially core sectors relating to finance and fund management as even if you don't end up shadowing this specific area lots of areas tie into the core sectors. Also research some of the areas of Simmons that make it unique such as their ESG sector and Simmons solutions so that you feel confident in the information sessions.