Summer Vacation Scheme Review

Mon & Fri: practice area overviews Gained insight to the breadth of expertise offered by the firm, with in-depth discussion of each seat within the practice. This included practical aspects, such as when a seat can be allocated, as well as the type of work a trainee can expect, and examples of clients. The more technical side was also addressed, discussing the scope of the work, and how the firm has been involved in notable cases. Time was also allocated for questions at the end, to ensure any queries could be addressed. These took a range of formats - for example, panel Q&A discussions, case study discussions, and presentations. All areas of the firm were covered, including areas such as DEI and pro bono. Tues, Wed, Thurs: time with trainer Time was spent at our desks with trainer/supervisor from practice area we had been allocated. We were able to take on work via these trainers, or speak to other members of the practice area, to ensure access to a breadth of work. Sharing office space also allowed us to develop insight by 'osmosis', for example by sitting in on client calls, or asking more general questions about the tasks they were working on. We also used this time to schedule coffee chats, with those both inside and outside of the allocated practice area, to gain an insight into their experiences

Was able to develop key soft and technical skills through applying them in a legal environment: - Attention to detail Engaged in tasks requiring strong attention to detail, such as proofreading and document review - Time management Balanced organising coffee chats with relevant task deadlines and making progress on group project - Networking Interacted with a range of professionals, from other vacaction scheme students to partners - Proactivity Took responsibility for seeking additional work, reaching out to organise coffee chats, etc - Technical analysis Reviewed and understood complex documents, discussing these with supervisor to consolidate knowledge Teamwork - Worked in a small team to create a comprehensive programme for the firm's charity partners, including innovating a non-presentation method of delivery

The scheme provided an insightful and engaging view into the firm, both in the broad sense of its business operations, but also the day to day work conducted. Overall, the scheme was well organised. I felt highly supported and welcome throughout, whether through my trainee buddy, trainer, or graduate recruitment. However, the structure of the scheme also allowed me to maintain the independence to pursue the areas I was specifically interested in, and interact with a range of people at the firm

Interacted mostly with trainees and associates, but based on this, I found the general atmosphere to be welcoming and supportive. Both my trainer and others I encountered at the firm willing to take the time to speak wherever possible, about a range of topics, or utilise their own networks to help if needed.

Really enjoyed the scheme overall, provided a real insight to both the day to day work and the general operations at the firm. Unfortunately, I was only able to interact with a limited number of partners, but would have liked to have interacted more with those at the higher levels of the firm, whether individually or at group networking events.

Yes

- Understand the firm and your motivations for your application, and how these link. Although there is no 'one type' of lawyer at the firm, and it can be difficult to distinguish between leading law firms, I found I had a lot in common with the other vacation scheme students, trainees, and even associates, in terms of my career ambitions but also expectations for the workplace. - Develop interviewing 'soft skills' as well as technical knowledge, as the firm is also looking for someone who will get on well with the rest of the team alongside being capable of doing the work itself - Don't rush the application - recruitment can take place early in your university career, but focus on developing skills and competencies which place you in a more competitive position before making the application itself