B.U.I.L.D Intern Review

As a B.U.I.L.D. intern in the Excluding US-DCM (formerly known as General Securities Group) team at A&O Shearman, my role involved gaining hands-on experience in the legal field through a variety of tasks and responsibilities. On a day-to-day basis, I worked closely with two supervisors who provided guidance and mentorship throughout the internship. My daily activities included: Document Mark-Up: I assisted with reviewing and marking up legal documents. This involved making revisions, adding comments, and ensuring that the documents met the required standards and addressed all necessary points. This task helped me develop a keen eye for detail. Drafting Documents for Live Deals: I had the opportunity to draft documents that were part of active legal deals using precedents, and then getting my supervisors to check them afterwards. This task allowed me to apply my writing skills in a practical setting. I learned how to adhere to formal writing standards, and align my drafts with the specific needs of the deal. Pro Bono Work: In addition to working on live deals, I also engaged in pro bono tasks, which provided a different perspective on the legal profession. This work was particularly rewarding as it was personable and allowed me to contribute to meaningful causes while honing my legal skills. Throughout the internship, I attended various training sessions, including those focused on commercial awareness, soft and hard skills, and the graduate recruitment process, which further enriched my understanding of the legal landscape and the skills needed to succeed in the field. My supervisors were incredibly supportive, offering feedback and guidance to help me grow both professionally and personally. Overall, the internship provided a comprehensive and immersive experience.

During my B.U.I.L.D. internship at A&O Shearman, I had the opportunity to both learn new skills and further develop my existing ones. One of the most significant new skills I acquired was attention to detail. Prior to the internship, I had limited experience in legal document mark-up, but through hands-on tasks, I became adept at reviewing and revising legal documents. I learned how to identify key issues, suggest improvements, and ensure that the documents met the necessary standards. This not only sharpened my attention to detail but also deepened my understanding of how legal documents are structured and finalised. I also greatly improved my legal drafting skills. While I had some foundational knowledge, the experience of drafting documents for live deals under the guidance of my supervisors allowed me to enhance my ability to craft precise, clear, and well-structured legal documents. I learned how to effectively adhere to the specific language and format required in professional legal practice. Additionally, working on pro bono tasks allowed me to develop my research and analytical skills further, as I was often required to explore new areas of law and apply them in meaningful ways to support these initiatives. This experience also reinforced my commitment to using my legal skills to make a positive impact. Overall, the combination of practical experience, mentorship, and training sessions during the internship allowed me to significantly develop both new and existing skills that will be invaluable as I progress in my legal career.

During my B.U.I.L.D. internship in the Excluding US-DCM team at A&O Shearman, I was entrusted with a significant level of responsibility, which greatly enhanced my learning experience. From the outset, I was given the opportunity to work on substantive tasks that directly contributed to ongoing projects and deals. For instance, I was involved in marking up important legal documents for several deals, a task that required careful attention to detail and an understanding of the specific legal and commercial context of the sectors these business operate in. This responsibility demonstrated the trust my supervisors placed in me to handle complex and precise work. Moreover, I was given the chance to draft documents for live deals using standard form precedents, which was a crucial aspect of the work carried out by the team. This task allowed me to take ownership of parts of the drafting process, and developing my drafting skills under the guidance of my supervisors. In addition to these tasks, I also took part in pro bono projects, which gave me the opportunity to contribute to meaningful causes while further developing my legal skills. The responsibility I was given in these tasks, from initial research to the preparation of documents, was both challenging and rewarding. Overall, the level of responsibility I was given during the internship was substantial, and it provided me with a practical understanding of the legal profession, along with the confidence to handle significant legal tasks in the future.

During my B.U.I.L.D. internship at A&O Shearman, I received an exceptional level of support and guidance, which greatly enhanced my experience and learning. Firstly, I was assigned two supervisors who were incredibly supportive, dedicated, and approachable. They provided clear instructions on tasks and offered constructive feedback on every assignment I completed, which helped me improve and apply that feedback to future work. This ongoing feedback loop was invaluable in refining my skills and building my confidence. Additionally, I was matched with a REACH mentor and a trainee buddy, both of whom shared similar interests with me. This thoughtful pairing, organised by the graduate recruitment team, meant that I had access to individuals who understood my career goals and could offer tailored advice. My trainee buddy was always available to answer my questions, and they also facilitated connections with their peers, expanding my network within the firm. My REACH mentor provided additional guidance and insight, helping me navigate the early stages of my legal career, especially as she was dual qualified. The team environment was also very welcoming. Every lawyer from partner to trainees in my supervisors’ team made an effort to check in on me, offering their support and making sure I felt comfortable asking questions. This created a collaborative atmosphere where I felt encouraged to seek help and learn as much as possible. Moreover, the firm provided extensive support right from the start, including IT training during the first two days, which ensured I was well-equipped to handle the technical aspects of my work. The combination of structured mentorship, accessible supervisors, and a supportive team environment made me feel truly supported throughout the internship.

The company culture and general atmosphere at A&O Shearman during my B.U.I.L.D. internship were incredibly inclusive, supportive, and welcoming. From the moment I joined, it was clear that the firm is deeply committed to creating an environment where everyone feels they belong, can excel and can thrive. Throughout the internship, I felt fully supported by not only my two supervisors but also by everyone in the Excluding US-DCM team. My supervisors were dedicated, providing me with meaningful tasks and giving detailed feedback on every piece of work I completed. Overall, the culture at A&O Shearman is one of encouragement, collaboration, and inclusivity. It is clear that the firm is committed to nurturing talent and providing a supportive environment where interns can grow both personally and professionally.

I thoroughly enjoyed my B.U.I.L.D. internship at A&O Shearman, and the experience exceeded my expectations in many ways. From day one, the firm’s commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive environment was evident, and this played a significant role in my positive experience. My experience in the Excluding US-DCM team allowed me to gain hands-on experience in a range of legal tasks. I really appreciated the opportunity to work closely with my two supervisors, who were not only incredibly talented but also approachable and supportive. They provided me with meaningful tasks, from marking up documents to drafting for live deals, and were always available to give detailed feedback. This helped me develop my skills and apply what I learned in real time. Having a REACH mentor and a trainee buddy who shared similar interests made the experience even more enjoyable. The fact that the graduate recruitment team tailored these pairings to match our interests was particularly thoughtful. My mentor and buddy were always willing to answer my questions, introduce me to their peers, and provide guidance, which made me feel welcome and part of the team. The overall atmosphere at A&O Shearman was incredibly welcoming. The lawyers in my supervisor’s team were always checking in on me and offering help, which made me feel supported throughout my internship. The firm’s emphasis on feedback was also something I valued greatly, as it allowed me to continuously improve and learn from my experiences. The additional support and resources provided, such as IT training in the first two days, the structured guidance from my supervisors, and the willingness of panelists and presenters to engage in follow-up discussions, all contributed to an environment where I felt set up to succeed. I also enjoyed the presentations on commercial awareness and the introduction to different practice areas, as they broadened my understanding of the legal profession. Overall, the internship was a highly enjoyable and rewarding experience. The firm’s dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive culture, along with the opportunity to engage in meaningful work and develop valuable skills, made it an experience I would highly recommend to others.

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Based on my experience as a B.U.I.L.D. intern at A&O Shearman, here is the advice I would give to others applying to the firm: Research the firm and know what sets them apart. Be proactive and take initiative: A&O Shearman offer numerous resources and opportunities for learning and development, but it’s up to you to make the most of them. Reach out to your supervisors, mentors, and colleagues with any questions or ideas you may have. Show genuine interest in the work and be willing to take on new challenges. This will demonstrate your eagerness to learn and your commitment to your role. Leverage the support system: The firm provides a strong support system, including supervisors, a REACH mentor, and a trainee buddy. Don’t hesitate to lean on them for advice, feedback, or connections within the firm. They are there to help you succeed, so take advantage of their knowledge and experience. Building these relationships will enrich your internship experience and help you navigate your time at the firm more effectively. Be open to feedback and learning: Feedback is a critical part of the learning process at A&O Shearman. Be open to receiving constructive feedback and apply it to your future tasks. This will not only help you improve but also show your supervisors that you are adaptable and keen on growing in your role. Engage with the firm’s culture: The culture at A&O Shearman is inclusive, supportive, and focused on professional growth. Engage with your colleagues, attend presentations, and participate in training sessions. These interactions will give you a better understanding of the firm’s values and work environment. Additionally, they can open doors to further opportunities within the firm. Prepare and stay informed: Before your internship, take the time to research A&O Shearman and the specific practice areas that interest you. Being informed about the firm’s work and the legal industry in general will help you contribute more effectively and ask insightful questions during your time. Be yourself and stay confident: A&O Shearman values diversity and wants you to bring your authentic self to the firm. Confidence in your abilities and perspectives is key. Trust in your qualifications and experiences that got you this far, and don’t be afraid to express your ideas and viewpoints. Applying these tips will help you make a strong impression during your internship and maximise the opportunities that A&O Shearman provides.