Vacation scheme student Review

It was very varied, and the placement meant we were always kept busy. The mix of socials and work was just right.

I felt that the work I undertook was actually necessary and needed to be done, if not by me, then someone else in the department. In that sense, I was able to help reduce peoples' workload.

There is a consistent support network and very frequent catch-ups with both soliciters and members of graduate recruitment. They really do love to know how you are getting on!

All of the research and analysis skills will be invaluable for my final year at uni. Further, I felt like some of the tasks mimic those done by trainees so I have an idea of what to expect/the skills i'll need when/if i get a trianing contract.

Everythign was organised down to the letter. There was just enough structure to ensure you knew where you were meant to be and what you should be doing. While there was also enough timwe to get properly settled into the departments and coarry out some substantial tasks. The first two weeks give you a real chance to get to know a department, with the final week successfully diversifying your experience a little.

Everyone was extremely friendly and this ensured the atmosphere remained light, while also maintaining an air of professionalism.

They really went out of their way to ensure that we were welcomed and entertained throughout the scheme. Further, all work was sufficiently explained and there is a constant point of call, should you require it, in the form of a departmental trainee buddy.

The insight was really very helpful. Particularly in the day to day workings of a city firm, even using the document management system, email and canteen were valuable insights.

There is a general warmth to the firm and through meeting such a wide range of people, from all levels, this is clearly the case right up to the partnership. Naturally, you would get to know the culture even better from working for a longer period, but from this short experience, we were exposed to as much of the firm's culture as possible.

Definitely a valuable process, particularly being able to see the potential career progression and speaking to people at all levels of the firm.

We recieved a weekly salary which more than covered food and transport

They provide frequent opportunities for networking. Both in formal seated arrangements, as well as more informal social occasions. There is a big focus placed upon meeting people from all areas and elvels in the firm

They planned a series of social events, both throughout the working day as well as after hours. These were a great opportunity to both get to know the other placement students as wello as people at the firm.

We had a talk about the pro bono supported by the firm and they actively encouraged us to talk to the relevent people about opportunities. The trainees were also very helpful in describing their experiences.

I would definitely recommend this to anyone considering a career as a city solicitor.