Summer Vacation Programme Review

My Vacation Scheme at Allen & Overy was thoroughly enjoyable. Unlike other vacation schemes, we were trusted with real work and received feedback quickly on the work we had completed. There were great social events which allowed us the chance to speak to a range of employees. The firm is a fantastic place to work and I am keeping in contact with other students on the scheme.

There is a great atmosphere at the firm. Everyone is willing to help you in your everyday work. There is a focus on teamwork. Trainers and trainee buddies are keen to maintain contact following the scheme. Everything I did was followed with a thank you. It was great to feel like I was helping rather than hindering colleagues in their work!

Guidance and support naturally depends on the task and the individual trainer. However, both my trainers took time to explain new work to me. I always felt as if I could ask questions and talk honestly with them.

The experience may help with module choices. However, the real benefit of the experience is in determining where I would like to work in the future. We were privy to lots of information which will help in choosing our future careers.

The scheme was very well structured. Graduate Recruitment and HR are all lovely. There were a range of activities from a duck tour to practice area talks. These were important in order to gain a real feel for the firm and what it can offer graduates.

The students on the scheme got on well. Everyone was friendly but also ambitious. Our trainers and trainee buddies took us out for lunch and most colleagues were keen to get to know you as a person over coffee.

Both trainers spent a lot of time explaining legal concepts and tasks. The talks involved a wide range of people from the firm. Training was excellent and I have no doubt this would continue into the training contract itself.

Unlike other schemes I have completed, we were given a realistic view of life at the firm. There was an emphasis on being given the opportunity to be involved in real work. Once I became a trusted member of the team, this involved multi-tasking and client contact.

Allen & Overy has a special culture. Many firms claim to have a friendly, team based, open door culture. At Allen & Overy this was genuine. Everyone was willing to talk and spend time supporting you.

Content was very valuable. The scheme has helped me in distinguishing firms. I very much hope to be offered a training contract at Allen & Overy.

Pay was adequate. Would cover accommodation, food and travel in Central London.

Lots of opportunities for networking with a wide range of people. Some events were more informal and did not even involve members of the Graduate Recruitment Team. It was easy to build up a picture of what it would be like to work at the firm and to ask questions.

Great range of activities from a duck tour to a barbeque on one of the roof terraces at the firm. Fantastic!

Yes! Range of sports teams as well as Pro Bono activities. This was impressive. Employees have lots they can get involved in and there is a family atmosphere at the firm.

A fantastic experience. This scheme gave me a realistic view of the firm and life as a trainee solicitor. Thoroughly recommend!