Vacation Scheme Student Review

I think it was the right mix between getting to learn about the firm's work, getting to know the people and the firm's culture, and having fun on socials.

I was asked to be involved in various of departmental meetings and discussions, including catch up lunches and training sessions. Work that I created for the department was also circulated around to everyone and made me feel like the work that I was doing is valuable and of use to them.

I had amazing supervisors in both my seats, and really friendly and helpful trainee buddies. My supervisors were very patient in explaining to me the deals/details of the case and in explaining what I have to do in terms of the task. They also answered my questions very well and was never rushing them.

One of the options that I am doing next year was one of the seats that I took in this Vac Scheme, and I feel like I've had a valuable insight into the practical side of it. I also think that the interpersonal skills developed here will be useful for me in the long run.

It was a perfect structure as I felt I learnt a lot but also wasn't too stressed or pressured. There was a good balance of learning (from department presentations in the morning and from supervisors), working (when we were at our desks and for the Client Pitch Presentation) and socialising.

I have been at other Vac Schemes and definitely feel that people here are more open and considerate. They are willing to answer questions and people smile at you even though they don't know you, which shows the friendliness of the place.

We got presentations from each department for most of the mornings, as well as library, IT and telephone training, which is very useful for us.

We were given work that trainees would normally undertake, which gave us a real taste of what it would actually be like.

During my time at the firm I can definitely say I know what the culture is like here, and it has confirmed to me that they are considerate, friendly and open minded.

It has helped me in my decision regarding which firm, out of the different Vac Schemes I've taken part in, I would choose if I was offered it. I would put Baker & McKenzie at the top because of the culture of the firm, it's global outlook, and the quality of work and the lawyers that I've seen in my time here.

I was paid 270 pounds each week.

We got to meet everyone from trainees to associates to partners.

They were fun and good opportunities to get to know the lawyers, and there weren't too many that it weared us out.

There is a strong emphasis on CSR and diversity so we were given talks about the sorts of organisations we can join if we were here.

It was a very well structured and useful scheme.