Spring Clerk - Vacation Scheme Review

A valuable insight into life at a law firm. I did not feel as though I was on a vac scheme, I felt as if I was a genuine member of the department given real work to do and got to work with a number of different people in both departments I spent time in.

My work was valued highly, my co-workers were not simply setting review tasks, it was useful work and that appreciated that.

I felt able to approach everyone, even associates and partners, I never felt uncomfortable asking for help.

It is fantastic to have real experience of working in two top departments in a city law firm for two weeks. I was busy and learned a lot.

The perfect balance of social events, training events and time in the departments. There were no noticeable problems which speaks volumes about the organisation of the scheme.

Everyone was extremely enthusiastic and friendly.

The firm involved partners at many events and the partners were genuinely enthusiastic about being present and being able to chat to us. I was constantly given work by my supervisor and also got to attend court and a barrister briefing with members of the team which was a fantastic experience.

As I say, I feel I wasn't on a vac scheme but actually a member of the department. From working and talking with trainees and the work I did I feel I have a perfect picture of what life would be like as a trainee at Baker & McKenzie.

It is hard to gauge a firm's culture just from reading graduate recruitment sites and attending an assessment day, spending time in the firm and working with trainees and associates is really the best way of understanding a firm's culture. I found the culture extemely welcoming and friendly, I never felt like an inconvenience as a vac schemer, I was welcomed into each department and felt comfortable straight away.

I would very much like to pursue a career in commerical law and my time at Baker & McKenzie has just cemented that view. I would love the opportunity to work at the firm full time and am sad to be leaving after this fantastic scheme.

Paid £310 per week.

The networking opportunities are great, there are trainees and associates at nearly all the events and I was introduced to all members of the department and given work by many of them.

Excellent, not too many but a perfect amount to see the other vac schemers on a regular basis. The curry night was a particular highlight.

The trainees are very open to discussing their work life balance and activities outside work.

Definitely, I can't think of how the scheme could be improved. An invaluable insight into life at a city law firm.