Cambridge Summer Vacation Scheme Review

The scheme started with an induction day in the London Office, where we were introduced to the scheme and given our IT equipment. I was then based in the Cambridge office for the rest of the scheme. I was working with the Patents and Corporate Tech & Life Sciences teams, and completed various tasks for both teams across the two weeks. As part of the assessment, we worked on a group presentation. This was presented to the rest of the vacation scheme students and the graduate recruitment panel in the London office at the end of the second week. During the scheme, I completed a range of tasks, including drafting, research, and writing an insight report.

I have developed my legal research skills. TW has its own AI tool, which was useful for drafting and understanding legal jargon. I have learnt a lot about business development and managing client relations. Everyone in the firm was helpful and keen to help your learning and development.

I spoke with several trainees who discussed their experiences on the training contract. There is also the opportunity to speak with associates and partners to discuss their career journeys.

Everyone is kind, welcoming and helpful. I never felt that I was interrupting someone or getting in the way. It was great to see how well people work across offices. Staff in regional offices are welcomed in London, and involved in client work from the London office.

The early talent team organised socials and networking opportunities throughout the scheme. Everyone else on the scheme was very friendly, it is obvious that TW selects students with similar values and personality traits. Whilst it is tiring and full-on, no one expected me to work past the normal working hours, or to complete tasks if I didn’t have time to do so. Supervisors valued open communication and honesty.

Yes

I would recommend that applicants stay true to themselves throughout the process. TW value applicants who are friendly, proactive, and have a positive mindset. I would suggest that applicants stay on top of researching the firm and developments in the field. Commercial awareness is an important part of the application process.