Vacation Scheme Student Review

I was involved in a vast range of work from across the practice areas I was sat in. This could range from large research tasks, writing first drafts of emails to clients, joining client calls and business development tasks. I received work from multiple people other than my supervisor and trainee so I had to balance competing deadlines and upkeeping transparency with many senior members. This was alongside presentations arranged for the vacation scheme students and any social coffees or lunches in your calendar!

I have learnt so many new skills on the HSF Vacation Scheme. It really increased my confidence in my own ability and how comfortable I am receiving constructive feedback. It also increased my communication skills as, naturally, I ended up meeting new people and new types of people every single day. I was able to adapt to the best way to explain myself and the etiquette to use when chatting to different people across the firm.

It was great! Through engaging in business development tasks and the group project which was centred around pitching to a client, I have exponentially increased my understanding of law firms as businesses. In particular, we had multiple sessions about pitching ahead of our group project and received constrictive feedback after we pitched to a panel of employees at one of HSF's biggest clients. Regarding business development I helped research for multiple emails that get circulated to clients on important issues like Climate Change and Developing Technology.

The culture at HSF was great. The firm seems to genuinely care about its lawyers' mental health and the seniors ensure there is not an overwhelming amount of work on any trainee's plate, as well as helping them navigate the lifestyle change. Moreover, the office has an open-door culture meaning I felt comfortable knocking on door and introducing myself! It is also clear how much HSF cares about DE&I from the get-go and did not hear of any negative experience.

I had an incredible experience during my vacation scheme at Herbert Smith Freehills. The diversity of the teams was inspiring, and I engaged in a wide range of fascinating tasks. The supportive environment and valuable learning opportunities made it a truly rewarding experience. It was a social vacation scheme and I truly felt like everyone wanted to chat to us or arrange coffees or lunches, which really made a welcoming impression. Overall, I do highly recommended this opportunity for any other aspiring legal professionals!

Yes

I would advise them to reseach the firm before applying and ensure they have their key reasons for applying to HSF all lined up! I also would urge them to go to HSF events that they hold on campus during the recruitment season or the vast range of open days they host in that period! It is very easy and pleasant to get to know the firm so I think this is the best way to start!