Vacation Scheme participant Review

The scheme provided a two week insight into what it would be like to work as a trainee at A&O Shearman. There were interactive workshops providing information about the firm's core practice areas, as well as talks from the firm's DE&I officers and the Managing Partner. There were also six days where we sat in a practice area, gaining exposure to the sort of work that trainees do. The balance was in my view perfect.

Being assigned various tasks for completion with differing and competing deadlines allowed me to develop my ability to manage my time effectively, prioritising tasks and creating a clear plan. I also honed my drafting skills when I was entrusted to draft the first version of a legal document. The group exercise allowed me to better my cooperation and teamwork skills, and also provided ample opportunity for me to practice presenting in a corporate environment. I also developed networking skills at a client networking event that I attended.

I was really excited to learn all about the business of A&O Shearman and the potential roles available. Having gained an insight into the various practice areas, and having sat in one area myself, I now feel much better placed to go about deciding where I see my career progressing and what area I would like to qualify into. I found it satisfying to put my commercial awareness to the test, and was pleasantly surprised by just how frank everybody was.

From day one, it was clear that A&O Shearman truly does have a collaborative culture - everyone in the team was more than happy to take the time to explain things, regardless of seniority. At a talk on technology, it was immediately obvious that A&O Shearman is not doom and gloom about technological developments but rather optimistic and forward thinking in terms of how these tools can be utilised to best serve client need.

Going into the scheme, I had high expectations seeing as this was the first Vacation Scheme run post-merger. My experience surpassed all expectations. I really enjoyed getting to know the Debt Finance team and being trusted to get involved in real work. I found the experience eye-opening in that there were practice areas that I had never really thought about qualifying into before but which peaked my interest. I feel I have made good connections at the firm, which I intend to carry forward.

Yes

My main piece of advice would be to research the firm in depth and really try to get this across in the application process - reflecting on your experiences and tying these back to the firm is, in my view, a key part of getting past the application stage. I would say that everything you read online about A&O Shearman, such as its collaborative culture and innovative approach, really is true, and would therefore advise applicants to apply.