Vacation Placement Student Review

A great all round placement which gave a perfect insight into the Firm. It wasn't just the work that provided me with valuable experience but also the social side of things; it was really good to see what the trainees were like once you got them out of the work environment. After work, we were invited out to drinks with clients of the Firm; we were never once left out.

I was given work by trainees, solicitors and associates. The lawyers at every single level made me feel valued, and also made me feel that I was a part of something, even when doing the smallest jobs.

Every job I was asked to complete came with a detailed memo explaining what was required. When dealing with numerous, and often complex banking documents, things occasionally got a bit confusing. Help was always at hand, however, and everybody in the Firm was happy to give further assistance and explain the key legal, and factual, issues. In addition to the legal side of things, we were supported by Human Resources who kept in contact throughout.

Some days were busier than others, but I was never sitting around searching for something to do. Once I had completed everything my trainee had given me, I was given work by the other solicitors and trainees in my department. I was always kept on my toes!

As vacation scheme students, I feel we were given a decent amount of responsibility throughout the placement. While given freedom in the way we wrote letters, for example, this was coupled with solid support to keep us on the right track.

This placement exposed me to the practical workings of law, and what really goes on inside a law firm. The skills I have learnt will be invaluable over the next couple of years as I complete my legal studies both at University, and at Law School thereafter.

The organisation of the firm as a whole was reflected in the organisation of the placement. From day one, we were given extensive information and timetables explaining exactly where we had to be. The talks from different practice areas, lunches out, and evenings with the trainees all ran perfectly, and without a glitch.

As vacation scheme students, we were sat in one particular practice area for the entire two week placement. The firm clearly invested heavily in training and events, but I would recommend that vacation scheme students are moved between departments, even if it was a week in one, and a week in another.

I would feel extremely privileged to be offered a training contract with Pinsent Masons, and the firm would undoubtedly offer some of the best training in the legal world.

Everyone on the placement immediately 'clicked' and this made the entire experience all that more enjoyable. Whether it was going out for lunch together, or drinks and dinner after work, the social scene never ended!