Vacation Scheme Student Review

We were allocated to two different seats across the two weeks. We were given a supervisor who assigned us work and provided feedback. It included completing various tasks based on matters that the supervisor was working on. I did various legal research tasks, reviewed documents and attended meetings with my supervisor. I also attend various workshops and networking events scheduled for the vacation scheme.

I learned how to write in ways that were specific to certain legal documents. I also learned the best places to source legal research, and the way that research fits into larger matters. I also learned more about the day-to-day tasks that are integral to various cross border matters at a global law firm.

Being assigned a trainee in each seat meant that we were able to fully understand the role of trainees at the firm. Having the ability to see their work and the similarities this had to the work we were being set, ensured that we understood what the role entailed. It was great to speak to partners at the firm through networking events who were keen to share their development at the firm and the business as a whole too.

There was a general air of friendliness at the firm. Regardless of their seniority, people were more than happy to answer any questions you might have about the firm, the trainee role, or work they were doing. There also seemed to be a culture of hard work, people seemed to genuinely care about the work they were doing and committed to completing it to a very high standard. The combination of these makes for an encouraging atmosphere.

I really enjoyed the experience. It allowed me to understand the culture of a global commercial law firm by giving me the opportunity to speak to such a wide variety of people. The work itself was always interesting and seemed to be useful to the matters at hand. Feeling as though you are making a difference in these matters, no matter how small, is an enjoyable experience.

Yes

Be yourself in the interview process and ensure that you think clearly and carefully. I thought it was less so about how much I knew, and more about the way I thought about things. It is useful to get used to speaking about legal matters, perhaps by discussing legal matters you have seen with a friend.