Vacation Scheme Student Review

Mondays and Fridays were "session" days, where all vacation scheme students gathered to listen to various sessions, including on the firm's practice areas, affinity networks, pro bono opportunities and their innovation hub Fuse. Tuesday-Thursday were spent at desks with our trainers, with some additional morning sessions as a vacation scheme group throughout the scheme. With my trainer, I did a mix of trainee-style tasks like research, proof-reading, formatting and drafting, which I would then get feedback on. Throughout, we were encouraged to meet trainees and lawyers working in areas of our interest for coffee chats and lunch.

Legal drafting is something I had never done before, so I learnt how to attempt to draft legal documents, and what is expected from a trainee. I also developed my researching skills, and now understand the level of detail that may be required if I were set this as a trainee task. Finally, I learnt how to draft emails to firm standards, and how to condense research effectively by providing an executive summary in the introduction of my email.

Everyone was so friendly, and it was made clear from the outset that there were enough training contract places for everyone i.e. the place was "ours to lose". This meant our vacation scheme cohort were really able to bond, and it did not feel "competitive" which was so lovely! Regarding the business - the group sessions which explained the firm's practice areas in more depth were very helpful, especially for areas where, as students, it can be hard to understand what the work actually involves, like International Capital Markets.

Everyone I met was so, so lovely - I cannot stress this enough!! It is by far the friendliest firm I have experienced. Nothing was too much to ask for - and anyone us vac schemers reached out to was so willing to meet for coffee and answer any questions we had. It felt like everyone had a vested interest in us, and really wanted us to succeed. I know I have found long-term mentors and friends!!

I thoroughly enjoyed the scheme. It was the perfect mixture of taught sessions, time with trainers at the desk, and networking opportunities such as a social to meet future trainees, coffee meet ups, and a celebration dinner.

Yes

Make sure you do your research and know why specifically you want to work for A&O Shearman. For example, you could do their Global Virtual Internship to understand what trainee work and life could be like! The recruitment team are so lovely, so do not be afraid to ask questions. Overall - just be your authentic self!