Trainee Lawyer Review

Coming from a non-law background, I wasn't sure if a career in the legal profession would suit me. However, I found the type of detailed work suited my skill set, and it was a great environment to be working with intelligent, like-minded people.

Everyone seemed genuinely interested to talk to me; they wanted to know my interests and background, as well as why a career in Herbert Smith Freehills appealed to me.

There was always someone from the graduate recruitment team or a trainee to help you get around and ask any questions.

The information concerning applications and interviews was very useful.

There was never any 'waiting around', there were plenty of breaks and refreshments, and the evening entertainment was seamless.

There was never a moment where I was sat twiddling my fingers. There were plenty of people to talk to who were really interested in talking about their careers, and lots of activities throughout the day to keep it exciting.

The workshop was only two days so it would be difficult to gain much more from us. The work shadowing was limited because prior to the Easter long weekend there was little work to do.

From seeing people work and talking to people, I got a really good impression of what it would be like to work in Herbert Smith Freehills. The work may come in cycles, or be very intense, but remains interesting.

We spent a lot of in presentations and workshops, so it was difficult to fully embrace the culture, but generally everyone seemed hard-working and dedicated. The philosophy seemed fairly work-hard, play-hard.

I was reimbursed for travel expenses. This was very helpful having travelled from outside of London.

There were plenty of networking events and the chance to speak to employees at all levels. This was helpful to see the career progression.

The networking opportunities took place in interesting places, like the Shard, which acted as a good ice-breaker to start conversation with other employees.

There are plenty of opportunities to take part in sports, or do pro-bono work.

Having spent only two days in the Herbert Smith Freehills, I gained a valuable insight in the type of work that is processed, and the culture of working in a law firm. This is experience I could not have gathered any other way. I would thoroughly recommend this insight to everyone.