Vacation Placement Student Review

My vacation placement has provided me with an insight into the work of a trainee solicitor at an international law firm and I have thoroughly enjoyed meeting individuals at the firm.

I did feel valued during my vacation placement. I was given interesting tasks to complete by my trainee buddy and different fee earners.

I was introduced to my trainee buddy by email before my vacation placement who provided me with background information on the practice area I would be joining. During my placement I was assigned a supervisor and I received regular emails from graduate recruitment.

I completed work that would be typically assigned to a trainee, which provided an insight as to what is expected from a trainee at Pinsent Masons. I also improved key skills that I will require to become successful in my future career.

I received a timetable at the beginning of the vacation placement which covered allocated time in my practice group, practice presentations, assessments and socials.

I was impressed with how friendly and approachable everyone at the firm was. I felt like I became part of the team and I was comfortable asking questions.

The firm invested a great deal of time, effort and money into the placement. The placement was very well organised and provided a fantastic opportunity to understand the culture at Pinsent Masons.

I completed work that would be typically assigned during a seat in the practice group. I feel that I have a better understanding of the role of a trainee and also those at more senior levels.

The culture at Pinsent Masons is friendly, welcoming and approachable.

I was paid £250 per week and reimbursed travel expenses for the induction in London.

There were numerous opportunities for networking and meeting other employees at the firm. The firm organised a trainee lunch, two trainee socials (bowling and Cluedo themed evening) and a partner lunch. In addition, vacation placemen students were also invited to office drinks on a Friday evening.

The networking/social event opportunities were enjoyable and gave you the opportunity to ask questions in a relaxed setting.

There are numerous activities that employees can get involved with outside work ranging from sporting activities to corporate responsibility programmes.

I would definitely recommend this insight to a friend. My vacation placement has confirmed my commitment to a career in commercial law and my ambition to work at a leading international law firm.