Vacation Scheme Review

For this placement, one week was spent in a given practice area, twice. Within the team, I was afforded the insights and documents to get an idea of the relevant practice area. My tasks involved research, basic drafting, attending team meetings and meetings with the client. I was also given documents to proofread, and was asked to keep minutes of meetings. The teams were approachable and encouraged me asking questions. Everyone was happy to see enthusiasm, and was willing to share in-depth information on their matter once prompted.

Most importantly, the scheme encouraged me to work on my diligence and attention to detail. The team reviewed my work and underlined the importance of rounding off good substance by ensuring correct form. Further to this, I refined my skill of interacting with clients. I was impressed by the team's interaction with clients, and the value that was afforded to good service. Finally, my drafting skills improved. I was taught on how to work with model forms, and encouraged to make decisions upon the guidance within those forms.

I was grateful to receive such a whole-round view into the business and potential career paths within the business. I was particularly impressed by the teams' honest representation of their work. I feel that I was given a genuine insight into working in the business, rather than a polished picture. Several talks were organised that provided good insights into the direction that the business is developing towards, and the challenges that workers in it may face in the future.

The company culture could be described as 'low-ego'. I did not encounter arrogant or negative colleagues, and at the same time felt that no-one tried to put on a 'role'. People were supportive of each other and appreciated hard work that had been done. I felt that the teams were particularly recognisant of good work done, and made sure to voice this. At the same time, there was at times an atmosphere of stress and (partial) exhaustion.

I much enjoyed the insight. The two weeks I spent at the firm were fast-paced and extremely valuable. I got the feeling that the teams were genuinely happy to have me, rather than having to 'put up' with me. Everyone made an effort to involve me in work where possible, and set aside substantial time to explain their work to me in detail. I felt that particularly towards the end I was able to deliver some helpful work for the team, which was gratifying.

Yes

I recommend researching the firm in detail. The firm does certain things quite differently from other city firms, and showing excitement about these differences can be valuable. Further, I feel that this firm in particular values a 'low-ego' spirit. I would not hesitate to apply even from a non-law background, as the firm seems to have been particularly keen on considering former STEM students as future trainees. Inter-disciplinary skills learnt during previous work placements are always helpful.