Summer Intern Review

I am an intern on the programmes summer internship. I work across two different sectors throughout the three weeks enabling me to gain an extensive level of breadth throughout the scheme whilst also enabling sufficient depth. I work on a varied range of tasks including writing lease agreements, writing client emails, research tasks, participating in client calls and many more. The role enables me to fully explore the supportive and collaborative culture of the firm.

I have been provided with a great deal of responsibility from the outset enabling me to fortify my time-management skills through effective prioritisation. This job has provided me with the opportunity to enhance my drafting skills, my ability to analyse legal documents and locate relevant information. Through frequently liaising with members of my team i have undoubtedly enhanced my communication skills, enabling me to develop as a prospective trainee at an unprecedented level.

Whilst i was provided with a great deal of responsibility throughout my internship i was simultaneously supported throughout the entirety of the process. I was provided with the ability to participate with client calls but was extensively briefed prior to doing so. I was provided with the opportunity to draft relevant documents for clients but these were checked prior to them being sent out. The firm found an appropriate balance between responsibility and support.

I was provided with an exceptional level of support and guidance from every individual at every level within my team. "No question is a silly question" was echoed throughout the firm on a daily basis. I am extremely grateful for the opportunities that i received as a result of the continuous support and guidance offered throughout the team as it enabled me to progress through potentially more complex tasks than i otherwise would have been unable to access. Alongside support and guidance i was provided with a consistent level of encouragement and praise.

The company culture was incredible, at every level i.e,from trainees to senior partners each individual was eager to support me transition into my role. The networking and social opportunities at the firm are unprecedented, each individual was eager to provide guidance, encouragement and wisdom which inevitably enabled me to progress as an intern. The atmosphere was extremely welcoming with high opportunity for open communication which mirrors the prospective open plan structure of the office.

I have absolutely loved my internship so far, the opportunities and experiences i have been provided with in such a small amount of time has been unparalleled. I would highly recommend this internship to any prospective trainees and law students. Whilst i have always admired the work that DLA Piper has been involved in as well as their innovative initiatives, this internship has solidified my eagerness to progress into a training contract with DLA due to the immersive culture.

Yes

I would recommend that anyone considering applying to DLA Piper certainly should. The firm has far surpassed my expectations. Whilst the firm is both multi-service and international there is a certain cohesion and uniformity to the impressive culture and experiences shared by all individuals working at the firm. I would suggest that individuals focus on excelling not only on legal matters but also in person focused skills, the communicative and collaborative nature of the firm requires individuals who are keen to support each other.