Insight Scheme Student Review

During the work shadowing week, I sat with the Real Estate Transactions team with my mentor. I received work from my mentor and her supervisor. We also received a task which was due at the end of the week which we could work on whenever we were quiet. I attended some meetings with my mentor and gained a well-rounded insight into what working at CMS was really like. We also attended some social events which I really enjoyed and gave a broader insight into life at CMS.

I wouldn't say I learnt any new skills but I developed some skills I previously struggled with. For example, I found the networking and presentation workshops really helpful, especially because our assessment on the last day of the placement included presenting to a partner and member of the early careers team. I am usually really nervous about presenting but found that I was able to apply the skills I had learnt in the workshop which made the presentation an enjoyable experience overall.

I found learning about the business of law in the first week really interesting and unique as it's not something that is offered at other law firms. This, alongside the shadowing week provided me with a wider understanding of CMS and the different roles within the firm.

Everyone was really friendly which I was surprised about as CMS is such a large and prestigious law firm. The company culture seemed relaxed and really down to earth. Even when we went to visit the London office I found everyone who worked there really friendly and keen to tell us about the company and the benefits they offer. I really got along with my mentor and she was very patient and determined to make sure I got the most out of my short time at the firm.

I really enjoyed the insight scheme in general!

Yes

Make sure you do your research on the firm! It's important to consider what office you want to apply to, not just because of the location but also because of the differing social culture, work/life balance and training contract seats between the offices. Be yourself at interview and make sure to ask lots of questions!