Vacation Scheme Student Review

The variety of work ranging from dealing with large household names to working on smaller cases all within the same day is what I enjoyed the most. It was hugely exciting to be a part of. I was really given the opportunity to get involved in cases and contribute to the department.

I was asked to draft precedent letters that would be added to the firm's bank of precedents to be used by the lawyers on a daily basis. I got involved in cases and was asked to draft letters, I really felt like part of the team. I was also asked to attend firm wide department training which was hugely beneficial.

I was given an adequate amount of support. I felt I was given just enough guidance; I understood what was expected of me but I did have to do some individual research, however I found this extremely useful and quite a true reflection of what it would be like to be a trainee in the firm.

A lot of what I had previously studied in my degree was relevant to my placement. The placement was beneficial as it helped me understand the practical application of the law.

It was extremely well structured. Having two department presentations in the morning worked extremely well as it was just enough information in one session so that I remained focused, any more presentations in one session would have been too much. The layout of the placement was extremely well structured, I particularly liked how the assessments were divided up between the weeks rather than all being on one day.

Everyone at the firm, regardless of seniority, was extremely welcoming and friendly and really made me feel like part of the team.

I believe Pinsent Masons invested a lot in the placement students, the firm paid travel expenses for all students from the various regional offices to attend the head office in London so that we could see the firm's headquarters and receive training. The firm also recognised that it was a great opportunity for all the students to meet the people who they may potentially be working with in the future. Aside from that induction day, I felt that the firm invested a lot throughout the rest of the week too. Many lawyers gave up time in their busy days to present to use and tell us about the various departments and programmes the firm runs. I was also lucky enough to attend department training for those who work in my department which highlighted that this level of investment in personal development is something the firm continues even after qualification.

It was extremely useful to understand what type of work I would be involved in and the types of clients I would be advising. The placement also helped me to appreciate the level of work that would be expected of me as a trainee joining the firm. I now realise that the firm is keen to give people responsibility and encourages them to challenge themselves, which is something that appeals to me.

The open plan office works particularly well. On of Pinsent Masons key values is to be approachable and I really feel this value is reflected in the daily life of the firm. Everyone in the department worked together constantly and there was also a lot of cross-department work too. There was a real sense of a collegiate atmosphere in the firm.

I feel that the amount of pay we were given for the placement was an adequate amount. We were also reimbursed for travel expenses to London as this journey was at the request of the firm.

There was a lot of opportunity. We had presentations from lawyers in each department every morning and had the opportunity to ask questions then. We also had several different partner or trainee lunches which gave us the opportunity to have a chat with people of differing degrees of seniority in a more relaxed atmosphere.

There were two social events each week which provided an excellent opportunity to network and socialise with employees in a much more relaxed atmosphere. I also really enjoyed the social events which were varied so as to appeal to everyone. We attended a pizza making class, a comedy night and also had office drinks.

There is a lot of focus on corporate responsibility in the firm and many are involved in the firm's Starfish programme. It sounds really interesting and having spoken to people about it, it is something I would loved to be involved in if given the opportunity. There are also various sporting events that employees can get involved in.

I have found the placement to be a fantastic way to get to know the firm, the type of work they do and the people that work there. The two weeks has solidified my career aspirations and I have found it extremely beneficial. I feel that I now have a deep insight into the firm and on that basis, I would definitely recommend that a friend should do it.