Summer Intern Review

This was a two week summer internship. I was allocated to a different department each week. I was assigned a supervisor in each department who gave me tasks to do, including research, completing case notes, legal drafting, preparing documents for court and attending client meetings. We were put into groups and given a topic to research and present. Each group had to prepare a presentation for a panel of trainees, partners and associates. There were regular workshops, talks, social events and catch-ups organised throughout the scheme, some of which allowed us to meet with the vacation scheme students in the Bristol office (virtually).

I have learned many beneficial skills including legal research, legal document preparation, legal drafting, client communication, interpersonal communication, public speaking, collaboration and time management skills. The presentation task allowed me to collaborate with my peers and required me to be inquisitive and think deeply about the assigned topic. It also gave me the opportunity to develop and apply my creativity skills as we sought to prepare an engaging presentation for our audience. I also enhanced my networking skills through the variety of social events organised.

Each day we attended in-person and virtual talks from various individuals in the firm based in the firm's offices across the UK and Ireland. Topics included ESG, diversity & inclusion, pro bono, AI and technology. These talks gave me an understanding into the business side of the firm and how the firm is striving to be a market leader. We also had the opportunity to talk to trainees which allowed me to understand the training contract process and potential opportunities upon qualification.

The culture of the firm is very open, friendly and collaborative. Everyone who I encountered was approachable and I felt comfortable asking questions at all times. It is clear that everyone enjoys the work that they do and this is reflected in how optimistic each individual is. The firm is open to including trainees and even interns in all client matters and is keen to allow the junior members of the firm to get early exposure in high-stake matters - this is something unique about the firm and reflects the excellent training programme on offer.

I thoroughly enjoyed the scheme and it exceeded all of my expectations. I was provided with a lot of responsibility but a balance was maintained between allocating me tasks which I had the skillset to complete and allowing me to shadow and learn new skills where that was more appropriate. The social events allowed me to get to know the other interns, trainees, paralegals, associates and partners, as well as enabling me to get a great insight into the culture of the firm.

Yes

Research the firm thoroughly and know exactly why you believe you are a good fit for the firm, and why the firm is a good fit for you. Look into the specific practice areas that the firm specialises in and any recent deals that you find interesting. Make sure you are commercially aware and prepare well for the competency-based interview. Be honest in all answers to both the personal questions and the online test. Have some questions prepared to ask your interviewer on anything in the firm that you want to know more about.